[JSeymourATL]

> Any tips on convincing a recruiter to set me up with a phone call to the hiring manager first?

Play hard to get...

First, it's helpful to know what level of recruiter you're dealing with, flip the interview on them-- what's their relationship with the Hiring Manager? Are they in-house or a 3rd party firm? Do they have a tech-specific background? How long? What other searches are they working on? Then (assuming the recruiter is a seasoned professional, make a friend); offer you may be able to help them with referrals to your network.

Try this word track-- 'I get calls like yours a lot. The role sounds interesting. But my process to evaluate potential opportunities is to 'always' do a brief phone-screen with the Hiring Manager first. I'm not a prima donna, but I've found this ultimately saves everyone's time and energy. Feel free to share my profile and background notes with him. If you still want to move forward; I can be available for a call Friday morning @ 9:30am"