Approaching employers

Directly approaching an employer can be an effective Job Search strategy.

Warm Calling

A ‘warm call’ is when you have had some prior contact with the employer, or that someone has referred you to them. Warm calling can involve a personalised approach – for example, “Hi David, we met last week at the ABC conference” can be an introductory line to a warm call which acts as an icebreaker and follow-up.

Cold Calling

Cold calling is when an employer does not know you and does not expect your call. A cold call involves contacting a business directly to ask if they have any roles available.

Ways to improve your cold calling skills

• Do your research – on their company and potential roles they may have available.
• Write a script which includes the key points of what you are going to say – cold calling works best when you are well prepared and can articulate this clearly. Consider developing an Elevator Pitch to ensure you highlight your key strengths and experiences. (Add your Elevator Pitch to your Career Ready Advantage Awards.)
• Practice – it is useful to practice with family, friends or the careers team to ensure you are prepared before making the calls.
• Take notes during each phone call as this will assist you to gather information for future calls and build your career/ industry knowledge.

You may also send an email to an employer for the same purpose. Write a clear and concise email – ensure your email is to the point. Consider when you are sending the email to employers – sending an email on the weekend, a Monday morning or Friday afternoon may not be the best time.

Keep in mind that a direct approach to an employer may not always pay off immediately, but can sow a seed that bears fruit in the future.