Subsequently, I started this blog about 9 years ago to express some constant frustrations about the employment / staffing / recruiting process and hopefully help job seekers in the process.
Over the years that the blog has been active, I've received feedback from quite a few people that it has assisted them in landing a job, BUT... I still feel like there are topics that beg repeating.
It ALL comes back to communication! Communication is KEY to employment, regardless of the industry you're in, or the position you are applying for. Within this blog, there are numerous posts about resume formatting and distribution, how to interview, how to present yourself etc, but the most important impression is always the first.
Think about how you want the potential employer to receive your first effort to communicate with them about the job you are interested in. One would assume you would want to stand out as a professional, thoughtful, educated and qualified candidate. In order to do so, you must consider the first method of contact. Typically the first method of contact is either via phone or email, both mediums require effort if you want the potential employer to take interest in you and respond.
Email:
ALWAYS and I mean ALWAYS provide an up to date resume when you make initial contact with a potential employer via email Additionally, the email should include the following:
- How you found out about the position? (if it was a referral, provide the person's name)
- When are you available to start a new job?
- A brief overview of your related qualifications
- Best time and way to reach you.
Example:
Hello,
My colleague Joe Donut told me that your company is seeking a Cerner SurgiNet Specialist for an upcoming project. I have attached my resume for your consideration. I am available to start a new position in 3 weeks, and have over 5 years of SurgiNet design, build and testing experience.
I'm happy to speak with you at your convenience.
Thank you,
Jane Eclair
555-555-1234
Example of what not to do: (no resume attached)
Hi,
I had a friend tell me you had an IT job that fit my experience. I'd like to talk to you about it.
Thanks,
John
Phone / Voice Mail:
Good Example of aVoice Mail:
Hi,
This is Carrie Apple, my friend Tammie Fay told me about your Cerner SurgiNet opening and I would love to discuss it with you. I can be reached at (speaking slowly & clearly) 555-555-1234 after 3pm ET.
Thank you
Good Example of an initial phone call:
Hello!
I'm glad I caught you! My name is Carrie Apple, my friend Tammie Fay works for your company and she told me you have a Cerner SurgiNet opening that would be a good fit for my qualifications. Do you have time to discuss it?
As a job seeker, it is important to remember that it is always likely there are numerous people applying for the same job. In order to be competitive, starting the communication off on the right foot is very important.
It is also important to remember that HR Personnel, Managers & Recruiters receive dozens (if not more) emails and phone calls every day from potential candidates. The emails and voice mails that provide the best information will be responded to first.
If a HR Rep/Manager/Recruiter is working to fill 5 - 10 (or more) job openings, receiving dozens of phone calls and emails, conducting and scheduling interviews, processing new hires, and countless other responsibilities, why should they take the time out of their schedule to respond to someone that didn't make an effort to provide the necessary information?
If you have reached out to a company in a professional manner with all the above mentioned information and STILL haven't heard back, dont be afraid to try one more time. If they do not respond, first, let me apologize on behalf of all recruiters out there, everyone who makes the proper effort deserves to be responded to, and second - it is unlikely they felt your qualifications were a match for any number of reasons and while everyone would like to know why they aren't chosen, its just not that important and a waste of your valuable time to keep trying. Move on to the next!
