How To Get The Job You Really
Really Want - Applying For Jobs - Mailshot To A Target List
This is the scatter gun approach. Send out as much
as you can, and see if something sticks. I am sorry to say that
this approach is favoured by some recruitment agencies (see
earlier), and it is not really the preferred method of trying to get
interviews. If you send out enough CV's you will get interviews,
after all, it is a numbers game! But, I have to say I prefer the
more focused approach, it is a lot more time (and therefore cost)
efficient if nothing else.
If you do decide to adopt this approach, you simply
have to get something on the covering letter or email that will
catch a potential employers eye and generate interest in your
application. More so than if you are applying to a specific
vacancy.
The real problem with this approach is your
application is likely to end up in HR and they are not the best
people to receive such an approach – unfortunately.
My best advice is to not sell yourself short and to
major on the personal qualities you possess that are likely to be
of interest. For example originality, creativity and self
esteem. Also, remember that the key quality most employers
look for is initiative. Try to give examples that are short and
concise in the covering letter. These are the attributes that are
likely to get you noticed by a prospective employer.
I have known situations where an applicant looked so
good, an employer has created a position specifically for the
applicant because they felt that applicant could add value to
their company. If you are going to adopt this approach it is worth
doing it right. I have heard some amazing stories in my time in the
recruitment business, and you never know, you may surprise
yourself. It is truly incredible what can happen if you adopt a
positive attitude, and make your mind up that you are going to
achieve a certain goal!
Most people have some major benefits that employers
are looking for, so if you are not sure, go back and re-read the
section on "What You Want" to crystalise your ideas.
Here's a few basic ideas on
how to make such an approach.
Dear Mr Bloggs,
I am currently looking to
make a career move, and have identified Joe Bloggs plc as a company
that I would be interested in exploring employment possibilities
with. Accordingly, please find enclosed a copy of my CV. I would
be grateful if you could consider me for any suitable openings
within the company.
Yet again, add skills and abilities, and
sell a little bit harder here!
As I said, it is very difficult to put something down
here that will cover all situations. This book would be my very own
War and Peace if I did! However, I hope these quick examples give
you an idea of what you should be aiming at, and the types of
opening hooks you can use.
You can adopt these for email applications. Obviously
the headings would not be relevant and the tone on email tends to be
quite a bit more “familiar”. This makes it slightly more awkward if
you are applying directly to a named person. I always think it looks
strange seeing “Dear Mr Bloggs” at the head of an email. However,
for job applications, that is what I would do – at least until the
hiring manager changes the tone.
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