Cold calling a company can help you discover jobs that are hidden, waiting to be filled. In many companies, some jobs are hidden from the general job-seeking public. These jobs are not advertised online or in help wanted sections. In fact, some jobs may go unfilled until the right person comes along. These hidden jobs may be the result of an over-taxed recruiting department, or a lack of urgency to fill the position. In some instances, you may be able to ‘create’ a job for yourself at a company, especially if you have specials skills or talents that could fill a need within the company. While it may feel awkward cold calling a company for a job, following some basic steps may help you secure a job faster than browsing help wanted ads.
Cold Calling Step 1: Research Company Options
Look for companies in your geographic area or industry who may have the types of jobs you would like to perform. Consider looking in your local paper for news about companies that could indicate job openings such as a company expansion project.
Cold Calling Step 2: Create a Company List
Create list of all companies you believe may be a good fit for your job style and preferences. If in doubt, put a company on your list. The list should contain the company name, contact information, general industry and an interesting fact that you could use in a discussion. For example, if you discover a company is looking to expand into a South American country and you speak Spanish, list the information on your sheet.
Cold Calling Step 3: Discover the Hiring Manager’s Contact Information
Call each company’s main number and request the manager’s name over the area of the company where you would like a job. If you are unable to uncover the hiring manager’s name, opt for a human resources contact that is responsible for employee recruitment.
Cold Calling Step 4: Send Your Resume and Cover Letter
Send a resume and cover letter to each company, addressed to the manger’s name you discovered in Step 3. Customize each resume and letter based on the company’s industry and job possibilities. Use the interesting fact you discovered about each company to tie your personal characteristics or talents to potential company needs. For example, note your fluency in Spanish as a good fit for the company’s push into Latin America.
Cold Calling Step 5: Make the Call
Follow up on your letter about a week after you send it. Call the company and ask to speak to the hiring manager. Request a moment of their time to ensure they are not too busy to talk to you. Introduce yourself and mentioned you sent in a resume directed to their attention. Formally request an interview, even if the company does not have an immediate opening. Express confidence, but maintain a courteous tone. Be mindful of the manager’s time and limit the call’s duration.
Cold Calling Job Hunting Steps Conclusion
Once you have made several cold calls, the process will seem easier. Job hunting is partially a numbers game, especially when jobs are scarce. The more companies you contact about a job, the greater the likelihood that you will find an opening. Maintain a positive, confident attitude and you will eventually land a job. Beyond finding a job, the process of cold calling will enhance your sales and phone skills, which could enhance your long-term career.
References
QuintCareers.com: Cold Calling: A Time-Tested Method of Job-Hunting
University of Ottawa: Cold Calls
