Speculative Applications

What is a Speculative Application?
A speculative application is when you send an employer your CV with a cover letter when a specific job has not been advertised. Speculative applications can be emailed or sent by post to an employer.
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Why send a Speculative Application?
Some companies don’t always advertise when they have available jobs.
You may be looking for seasonal work.
You may be looking for an internship.
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Just as important, is the fact that a well thought out speculative application can demonstrate to an employer that you are a proactive and motivated individual.

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So, now you know what a speculative letter is and have some top tips under your belt. However, we know it can still be tough getting started, which is why we have provided some example letters to help you out.

RELEVANT INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE

Example Letter 1

WORK PLACEMENT EXPERIENCE ONLY

Example Letter 2

NO WORK EXPERIENCE

Example Letter 3

Cold Calling

​What is Cold Calling?
Cold calling is when you call a business directly without knowing if there are any jobs available.
 
Why Do It?
A well-prepared cold call to a business you have researched shows initiative. Even if there aren’t any current jobs available when you call, you may be offered work experience or given information about a forthcoming job opportunity.

Tips for Success

• Before
• During
• ​After

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• Research the company
• Obtain a named contact (or ask for the hiring manager)
• Write a script highlighting your skills. We have included some points below on what you could include in your script.
  • This is who I am
  • This is what I have to offer
  • I am interested in working for you
  • I wondered if you had any vacancies?

Remember:
Prepare for all eventualities – including the answering machine!

• Stay focussed (minimise background noise & disruptions)
• Be polite and friendly to the receptionist who answers the call
• Speak clearly
• Sell yourself
• Take brief notes of what the employer is saying

• Follow up on any agreed actions (e.g. send CV)
• Practise makes perfect
• Be persistent! If the first session of cold calls doesn’t work, try and try again.

​HOW TO HANDLE OBJECTIONS

"​I’m sorry but Mr Smith is not available."

"I understand he must be very busy. Is there a better time I could call back?"

"I will get Mr Smith to call you back later."

"Don’t worry, I don’t mind calling back at a more suitable time. Can I take a note of their direct number so I won’t disturb you?"

"I’m very busy, I just don’t have time to speak to you."

"​I understand you must be really busy, I won’t take up too much of your time but I am happy to call you back later today if it suits you?"

"We aren’t hiring."

"​No problem. Might you have any vacancies coming up in the future? I am really interested in working for you – how do you normally advertise?"

JOB WALKS

What is a Job Walk?
A Job Walk is when you physically walk into an employer’s premises and give them your CV.
 
Smaller businesses and those from certain sectors, such as charities, may not have the resources – financial or human – required to process the volume of applications created by job ads. In this case they may place job adverts in their window as they can fill vacancies from direct approaches.
 
Why Do It?
Approaching an employer when you have a genuine interest in their organisation, or skills that can add value, can be viewed very positively and may result in an interview or even a job.

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