Speculative job application

[borednotboring]

I've namechanged for various reasons.

I've moved area and need to find a more local job. I'm struggling through the more traditional routes. I work in a niche area of large industry in a relatively senior role, there are a few similar roles in the new area but not many (most roles are in London, but I don't want to work there). I've just some recruitment companies to contact the larger employers in my area on my behalf, but I'm not getting anywhere. I'm thinking about sending my CV, with tailored covering e-mail to some smaller companies in the field, they would be addressed to a specific individual, generally CEO, most seem to have their e-mail addresses on their websites. Has anyone done this? Does it work? ANy do's or don't's I should consider?

Yes - phone first and get a contact name - then address your enquiry to that person - try and speak to the right person first before you send CV. Good Luck.

I think it is worth a shot. Really tailor your message, so picking up stuff from their news pages or stuff about the industry would be good. You need to give them a reason for reading it etc.

I am currently a freelancer, but I know lots of employed people who are struggling to recruit experienced people. A co with nous would keep your details on file, you could save them expensive agency fees in the future etc.

I do actually wonder if a posted CV would stand out better these days. We all get so many emails etc?

Good luck.

LinkedIn should help you identify the right person too.

Every professional role I have had except one has been through a speculative application. The only job I have been unhappy in was the one I got via the advertised position.

I have used two tactics depending on the sort of role I was looking for- either saying 'these are my skills and this is the type of work I am looking for' or ' this is why I want to come and work for your organisation and this is why I would be brilliant for you'.

I have always aimed to keep my application short- one page of covering letter and maximum two pages of CV. You don't want to intrude on someone's time too much if they have not solicited your approach. You also have to sell yourself quite hard, and be pushy about what you want, without appearing to do so IYSWIM.

I would say it is a great idea for someone looking for a professional role. Even if it does not throw up anything immediately, you may find that a little later down the line someone will remember you and make an approach to see if you are still interested.