Chapter 3: Diversify Your Job Search Strategy
Method 3: Cold Contacting
Method 3: Try cold contacting.
With regards to a job search, a cold contact is the action of contacting a person who you have not previously met for the purpose of finding out information. Cold contacts can be made in person by stopping by and asking to speak with the Hiring Manager. Cold contacts can also be made both over the phone and by email to inquire about potential job opportunities. This method can increase your effectiveness greatly, as calling 30 companies to find out if they are hiring is much more efficient than visiting them. Cold contacting is more useful in some industries than others; the art of cold calling can be particularly intimidating and is often accompanied by a fear of rejection. To account for this, have an idea of what you would ask about and what you can offer. Don’t be discouraged if your efforts only result in a few positive responses, that’s likely all you need to secure an interview. You can prepare for cold contacting by:
- Introducing yourself.
- Asking about any potential job opportunities.
- Provide]ing information on what you can offer, your background, and experience.
- Proposing a possible meeting.
Example of a cold call script:
If your conversation continues:
I noticed that your restaurant recently opened up in my neighbourhood and I am wondering if you are hiring any servers at this time. I have over two years of experience in customer service environments and previous experience serving. Is there a time that I could meet with you to discuss this opportunity or drop off my resume and introduce myself in person?
If the company is not hiring, you could follow up with your thanks and a question or two:
- Thank you very much for your time.
- Are there specific times of the year where you hire more?
- Would you mind if I called back in a few weeks to see if there are more opportunities available?
- Is there anything you can advise me to do to increase my chances of securing work with your company?
