A goal of a job search campaign is to meet face-to-face with employers (interviews). The more interviews you have, the greater your chances for success. If you aren't getting interviews, it's unlikely that you will have job offers. Most job seekers prefer a passive job search strategy. They submit an application or resume and wait. When they don't hear anything, they repeat the process. On the other hand, successful job seekers are proactive in their approach. They take the initiative to make direct contact with potential employers. Contacting employers directly is fundamental to a successful job search.

Direct employer contact requires preparation, confidence and persistence. Many people are uncomfortable with this approach. They're afraid that they will offend the employer and hurt their chances for employment. A certain amount of concern is healthy; it's important to be considerate of employers and respect their time. But also remember that you have something they need. You're not asking for a handout-- you're selling a quality product! If you don't take the initiative, no one will take it for you.

Direct employer contact works for advertised jobs. Even if an advertised job discourages direct contact, it's to your advantage to take the initiative. A wise policy is to first follow the advertised directions, then make direct contact. If the advertisement states, "Send a resume," send your resume, then follow it with a phone call.Direct contact is the logical conclusion to a successful networking campaign. As your networking pays off in referrals to employers, you will have to make direct contacts. You have the advantage of using the name of your referral to soften the contact.

Basic Principles of Direct Employer Contact

• Preparation is critical to success. Research the employer, the industry and the job.
• Direct contact may be in-person or by phone. However, the ultimate goal is an in-person interview.
• The goal is to present your qualifications directly to the hiring manager.
• The goal isn't to talk with the human resources department, unless you're looking for a job in the department or it is the hiring authority. Respect the human resources department by complying with the hiring process.
• The goal isn't to submit an application or resume. If an application or resume is requested, graciously comply and continue your direct contact.
• When you make direct contact, don't begin by asking if they're hiring, or by saying you're unemployed. Capture their attention with your qualifications and ask for an interview.
• Plan your follow-up. If you're granted an interview, this is your next step. Otherwise come to an agreement with the employer about when you will call back.
• Sell your qualifications, send your resume and plan your follow-up even if an employer isn't hiring. You never know what will happen tomorrow.
• Whenever possible, the next step is your responsibility-- not the employer's. For example, if an employer says, "We will call you in a couple of weeks," you could respond with, "Would it be all right if I call you two weeks from today?" If they say "Yes," then you've agreed on your follow-up and the responsibility is yours.
• Expect rejection! It goes with the territory. Don't take rejection personally.
• Maintain a good attitude and a healthy sense of humor.

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Ordering the Creative Job Search Guide

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