Hidden job market
Networking
Networking is the process of identifying and making contact with people who can assist you in your job search. It is a beneficial way of finding work at any stage of your career, and also helps clarify your perception of the career path you’re investigating. 39% of undergraduate students found their first job out of Uni through networking.
Start by asking your existing network – friends, family and University staff - if there is anyone they could introduce you to within your industry of choice. Introduce yourself and let people know you are looking for work and your field of interest.
Expand your network of contacts through paid or unpaid work experience and via informational interviewing. Join a relevant professional association to tap into an existing network of people working in the field.
Some networking tips might help generate some ideas to get you started.
top of pageCold calling/direct contact
Cold calling (over the phone or in person) means approaching employers directly, without having had any prior contact, to ask for work. To be successful, research into the organisation and considering the role you’re seeking and why you want to work there is vital.
Establishing relationships with people who work for the organisation through previous networking activities, makes this technique less daunting.
Carefully prepare what you are going to say and be ready to answer some preliminary questions about what you have to offer the organisation. Have your resume up to date and tailored to the job you’re targeting.
Improve your resume with a Resumé Review session or look at the Resumé Express online tutorial on Careers Online.
Unsolicited applications
Sending employers a cover letter and resumé to express your interest in working for them is known as an unsolicited application. If you wish to use this method it’s important to target each application carefully and to follow up with a phone call.
Or, call before sending your application. This ensures that some contact has been made prior to your details appearing before someone in print. If the recipient knows to expect some correspondence, knows why it is being sent and has had a conversation with you, they may be more likely to take notice of your application.