How to Cold Call about Job Openings

Whether you are a recent college graduate or a professional with ten years of experience, finding a new job can be a daunting task. With the plethora of listings on the Internet and ads in the newspaper, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Plus, once you gather up all of the required materials and email them to the human resources department, you often never hear from anyone again. One of the best ways to be successful in your job search is to cold call companies that you admire. Although it may be intimidating at first, you will find that by putting yourself out there and making the first move with a potential employer, you can quickly get your foot in the door for an interview.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Begin by investing a few hours of your time into researching a few companies you would potentially like to work for. Use professional networking sites such as Zoominfo and LinkedIn to find key contacts you would like to speak with.

2. After you have found your target contacts, begin developing a personal sales pitch. If you have a script you can quickly refer to when you make the big phone call, you will feel much more confident than if left to ad lib.

3. Practice what you will say aloud. Although it may sound silly, it will help you to gauge whether your message sounds articulate and put together.

4. Make the call. If you are particularly shy or feel that it would be too intrusive to call during the workday, call after hours and leave a voicemail for your contact in which you introduce yourself and explain that you are interested in career opportunities in their department.

5. If possible, follow up with an email containing your resume and cover letter. This way, if they are interested, they have all of the necessary information to get the application process moving.

Tips & Warnings

• Always be polite when cold calling. If the person you called does not wish to speak with you, thank them for their time and move on.