Effective Cold Calling

Statistics indicate 80% of job vacancies are not advertised.  Networking and cold calling are excellent approaches to accessing these job opportunities.  If a friend informs you of a job opportunity it can be a lead that will get you the job offer.  

When making job applications, individuals often ask me how to get past reception as often reception people are seen as the gate keeper.  I encourage individuals to use reception staff to their advantage.  Although reception staff are gatekeepers they also have a direct communication line to managers.  Dropping off your resume at unusual times like late in the afternoon when the work day is winding down or dropping off your resume on a Friday afternoon or even a Friday afternoon of a long weekend can serve you well.   Being prepared to deal with the receptionist only, and not asking for a manager can show that you trust the receptionists ability to get your application to the right person.  Thanking the receptionist for her time and expertise, calling back to say that you met her/him last Friday and you are wondering if the receptionist requires any further information about your skills and abilities reinforces your confidence in her role.  Reception staff are often a strong communication link of the business; so utilizing this person to your advantage can make all the difference in your job search success.

Business (Job Seeker) Cards

Job seeking is about being just a little better that the next person.  Standing out from the next guy is very important.

A business card (or job seekers card) can do this.  Business cards are cards with information about the business or individual, which act as a memory aid.  Business cards normally include the following information: Name, Address, Phone number, E-mail address, website/blog/twitter account and product information.

Your job seekers card should include all this information, especially your product information, in-other words, what you are trying to sell: your experience, your education, your interests and try to limit it to three things, because people only remember three things.

Develop a business card; try the internet for a template and carry it with you at all times to give out to potential employment contacts.   When you meet someone, while networking (business/ social gathering or just on the street), make sure to ask for their business card.  Save these cards or even better, email the person/company to thank them for your card and to discuss your job search.

After they give you their card, they will likely ask for your card.  Now is your opportunity to give them your card and say a few things about yourself, with the goal of making a connection, getting a referral or finding out important information such as job openings with their company.

Even if you are not looking for work, start collecting other people’s business cards, start now, because you never know when you might use them to begin your job search.