Author: Tony Jacowski

The job search can be more frustrating when you are forced to apply
for jobs speculatively. But does it pay to apply directly, even
when there is no job opening posted? What will employers do with
such applications, if they are not expecting them in the first
place?
Does It Make Sense to Apply
You can view this question from two angles. Applying directly
without an ad being posted is broadly regarded as a speculative
application, a tactic that is commonly employed by job seekers. You
have to match your job need to availability, which means you can't
wait until a vacancy is advertised. Additionally, speculative
applications are almost a certainty in all industries. After all,
the purpose is to find a vacancy before it is advertised.
Another occasion when you might apply without an ad being posted
includes when you have received a referral or tip from someone that
you know who works with the company in question.
The bigger question is how recruiters and employees look at
applications when they are not expecting them. Unsolicited resumes
are never disregarded even though they may irritate a recruiter at
the time. Employers file unsolicited resumes in their database for
future use. These applications come in handy for companies who
don't advertise when they have a need, as a matter of policy.
A second aspect that is in your favor is when your application
reaches an employer just when they are contemplating recruiting.
Certain industries, such as service, advertising & marketing,
and software engineering employ people for various positions on a
continuous basis, as there is a high employee attrition rate in
these industries.
How Do I Apply Directly
There are some simple steps that you should follow, which includes
preparing a good resume and coverletter. The following points will
help you prepare your speculative application.
-Direct or unsolicited applications should be specific to
employers as you are offering your qualifications and skills to a
particular industry. You can consider doing this in a marketing
tone, for exploration.
-Try to include as much information as possible into your
application as you are applying for a non-existent job whose
requirements are not known to you. This is your insurance against
failure due to a mismatch between the job requirement and your
skill set.
-Take a paragraph or two to explain why you are interested in the
organization and how you are planning to contribute to their
success. Making concrete offers focusing specifically on 'where and
how' of your contributions in one way or the other is crucial. This
motivates employers, which is essential when there is no specific
vacancy at that time.
-You need to justify your claims of contributing to their success
by your qualifications and experiences. If you are applying for
middle or higher positions, let your accomplishments speak for you.

-End the application with a thank you and reminding them that you
wish to follow-up later. Then, do it!
Knowing how to apply using an unsolicited resume is important. You
can locate company contact information from the telephone directory
or from company websites.

Article Source:
http://www.articlesbase.com/advice-articles/applying-for-jobs-using-an-unsolicited-resume-50335.html

About the Author:
Tony Jacowski is a quality analyst for The MBA Journal. Aveta
Solution's Six Sigma Online offers online six sigma training and
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