It’s only older, more traditional businesses that still entertain speculative job applications now, but it’s still worth the effort. If you’re out of work, you probably have the time to spare to collect some email and physical addresses of likely employers. The internet and Yellow Pages are the perfect tools for this, and a little work can get you a long list of possibilities.
Don’t restrict the list to employers who you haven’t seen job advertisements for. If during your search you have seen employers offering roles similar to the ones you’re looking for, add them. They may have something suitable, it’s worth a try.
Using a template CV and covering letter like the ones we mentioned in this series. It doesn’t take much to tailor each one to a specific employer and get them ready for sending. A PC and printer will have these done in no time, an envelope later, you have a possibility in your hand.
Nobody is going to pretend that finding work in the current climate is easy. It isn’t. But what we want to convince you of is that there is always a possibility. By making an effort, using your imagination and a little perseverance you stand a much better chance of finding work. At the very least, it will put you above the majority of others on recruiters radar.
It may sound idealistic, but all this effort should be viewed as potential rather than legwork. Each letter and CV you post is an opportunity, not wasted minutes. Approach it with this in mind and it will shine through in your writing, and at any interviews.
Perseverance, positive attitude, professionalism and tenacity are all qualities employers look for. All of which are displayed when you expend effort sending speculative applications. Think of it like the lottery, you have to be in it to win it. The more CVs you get out there, the more chance you have of being noticed.
If money is an issue, don’t post them, deliver them by hand. If you’re the shy type, do it in the evening or at the weekend through the letterbox. Just remember to put “by hand” on the envelope. Either way, every letter you deliver increases the chances of your getting a job.
Speculative job applications are worth the effort if you have a computer to do the work. If you’re out of work and have the time, even writing them by hand is worth the effort.
Finding work is a numbers game. The more exposure you get, the more chance you have of being noticed. Sending these speculative letters alongside your other efforts only increases your chances of being snapped up by somebody.
