The internet has changed the face of the job search, but the authentic traditional methods are still very much alive and have high success rates. Before having the internet to communicate and get the information you needed to search for your jobs using; newspaper classifieds, your local library, phone books and your network of people; friends, family, colleagues, and clients. We have broken the traditional method down to 3 sections that we will discuss; The Classifieds, The Cold Cover Letters/Resumes, and Networking. Networking is a massive tool for job searching; refer to our Networking/Linkedin page for detailed information.
The Classifieds
There is no doubt that the classified ads in the newspapers are losing their place in job searching, especially with major corporations, but there are still many jobs listed in the classified ads especially with local companies and small businesses. Many of us forget that this country is still built on the small business owners so unless your heart is set on working for a major; the regional, national or international company then the classified ads may have your next job listed. One thing to remember today’s small business can be tomorrows major corporation and how exciting to be part of that growth. We recommend reviewing the major newspapers in your area and also pick up the small local papers they also have local postings.
The Cold Cover Letter/Resume
Have you ever thought about sending out a cover letter and resume to a company in search of a job that you’re not sure even exist? This is called the cold cover letter and resume. It’s estimated that 60% of job openings are never advertised, filled before posted or published to the public; they are filled from internal postings, through networking and resumes on file. Many success stories are using this method, but it takes time, effort, and needs to be done effectively.
Potential Advantages of your Cold Cover Letter/Resume
- Gaining early consideration for a position that has not yet advertised
- Being part of a company’s upcoming expansion plans
- Creating a job that previously didn’t exist
- Consideration to fill a position created by an upcoming promotion, transfer, termination or resignation
- Increase your network of contacts and having your resume forward on for more possible considerations
Advice for an Effective Cold Cover Letter/Resume
- Sending out hundreds of cold cover letters and hoping something sticks can be a waste of time. We recommend taking the time and effort to make them effective and target companies that you desire.
- Through library and internet research, develop a list of potential employers in your career field.
- Address and send it to an actual person; not a department, not to the human resource manager or a dear sir/madam. Use the internet, library, and telephone to find the contact information so you can send it to them personally. This can take some creative phone calls and internet research. You can send it either email or postal mail both can be effective; to be more effective, you can place it in an envelope marked confidential and then Fed-ex it.
- Some companies have hiring managers or a recruiting department; find the individual’s name whom to address the letter. Take it one step further; get the contact information of who would be your direct boss and also send them a copy addressed to them. Who better to have the pulse, on what their hiring needs are or will be that your next boss.
- You need to do some research on the company for information on their; culture, philosophy, values, and mission; you will need this information when writing your cover letter.
- When you compose your cover letter, you need to introduce yourself, share your desire to work for them, explain how you can contribute to the company and their mission, and highlight significant achievements. When you are sending your letter, thank the reader for their valuable time and possible consideration for further communication.
- You may also want to add or change some keywords or verbs in your resume that are relevant to the company you are writing.
