Where Does Cold Calling Fit Into Recruitment And Job Hunting

The world of Resume Writing and the broader recruitment market continues to evolve at a rapid pace.  Resume designs and job hunting techniques that served the test of time a few years ago may bomb under current employer and industry expectations. 

As a professional Resume Writing Service, our team is often asked about ‘cold calling’ and its value in the modern age.  It’s a great question, and in addition to giving me something to write about on this fine autumn day it also gives us an opportunity to help a few people. 
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So, let’s start at the beginning.  What is ‘cold calling’?

Put simply it’s when a job seeker contacts a business or prospective employer seeking employment without knowing whether a suitable job is available or whether a job has been advertised.  Traditionally it referred to people turning up to the front counter of a business with a Resume tucked neatly under their arm and asking to see the manager.  Today, it would probably extend to people canvassing potential employers using email and ‘contact us’ screens on company websites.

Is ‘cold calling’ for a job suitable for you? 

I am certain that if we lined up 100 professional recruiters and asked the same question the responses would be divided, so to some extent personal opinions impede on this topic.  So, I’ll put it out there up front that I do believe ‘cold calling’ still has a place in modern recruitment.  Notice also that I directed that question on suitability back to you rather than a general broad question.  Now let me explain………….

‘Cold calling’ techniques will suit some job roles more than others and will suit some job seekers more than others.  Many trade, labouring, customer service and retail businesses may be more receptive to a random visitor than a major corporation.  It is common to see ‘position available’ signs outside shops, factories, warehouses and trade type businesses.  You aren’t going to get past the front door if no positions exist, but you might just get to the door on a day they decided to employ someone.  Likewise, I suspect that if a job seeker rolled up to the office of one of the big banks and wanted to drop off a Resume for a senior executive position, the document wouldn’t make it much further than the bin inside the HR front door.  Their recruitment processes are often very structured and require applicants to follow a set process.  ‘Cold calling’ wouldn’t be expected to achieve great outcomes in that example. 

Thirdly, it comes down to you.  Not everyone is going to feel comfortable bouncing in the front door of a business full of life and oozing charisma and friendliness.  Many people would find that a daunting prospect.  If your ‘cold calling’ exercise ends up being a disaster because of your nervousness, then perhaps rethink the strategy.

So, sit back and consider the type of roles you are seeking and whether a random visit is going to work for you.  Lastly let’s touch on electronic ‘cold calling’ using email and websites.  Follow the same process as discussed earlier in this blog and determine whether it’s a viable option for you.  If you do send in a Resume and Cover letter unsolicited then I recommend you follow it up with a telephone call a couple of days later to speak with the manager/owner about available opportunities.  If they’ve looked at your Resume and were impressed, they may be more receptive to a telephone chat. 

If you picked up this blog thinking you would get the magic formula for cracking the job search puzzle, then I’m sorry to disappoint.  However, don’t rule out some tried and tested techniques just because they might be a bit old fashioned.  Determination, initiative, and desire to succeed have never gone out of fashion!

You might be feeling a bit overwhelmed by what’s needed to craft a quality job application and Resume document whether for ‘cold calling’ or in response to a job advertisement.  If that’s you, then we need to talk! 

At Present Professionally, we Power Your Career with the Right Words!
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Anthony Ferro
 
Present Professionally provides career services to clients across Australia.  View our career services at http://www.presentprofessionally.com.au/resume-services.html
You can follow Anthony at https://au.linkedin.com/in/anthonyferro1  and LIKE us on Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/PresentProfessionallyAustralia/
 
Written and Published by  www.presentprofessionally.com.au