Research Employers
Remember that most jobs are not listed anywhere. Find these leads by researching your Job Search Target (pdf). You can research occupations, industries, and companies in several ways:
- Start at your public library. They will have business directories and publications. Check out news articles and trade journals. There may be other local books focused on your target.
- You can also use what you learned about employers from your network contacts.
- You can find a list of possible employers online. Use the Employer Locator to find businesses. You'll find contact and company information.
Research occupations, industries, and companies (pdf)
Think about your job search target from Exercise 5.1. Research your targets (pdf). Your library or career coach may also be able to help you to do this task.
Research each employer you are interested in
You can look at the company’s website for this information Or your librarian may be able to help you.
Contact Employers
Once you know a bit about your target employers, you can call them. Use your research for this call. If you feel like you have a good connection, offer to send a cover letter and resume.
| Tips for Calling Employers |
| Write down what you want to say. Use an Employer Contact Script (pdf). This is important if you are not used to calling employers. Don't read your script; your conversation should natural. |
| Smile while you are talking on the phone. It makes your voice sound cheerful and relaxed. |
| Your outgoing voicemail message should not have music or jokes on it. Just say your name and ask the caller to leave a message. |
| Tell your roommates and family that employers will be calling. Ask them to take clear messages and give them to you right away. |
| Call back all employers who call you, even if you no longer want the job. |
| Return all phone calls within 24 hours. |
| Tips for E-Mailing Employers |
| Use a simple e-mail address with your name or initials for your job search. Don't use inappropriate nicknames or jokes like "cutiepie@email.com." |
| Start the e-mail with something of interest to the reader. Let them know right away why you are writing and how you can help their business. Write the e-mail the same way you would a letter. Don't use online acronyms (IMHO, LOL, etc.). |
| Have a subject line that is clear and interesting. |
| At the end of your message, tell the employer you plan to follow-up. Give them another way contact you such as your phone number. If you sent the e-mail without them knowing, ask if they want you to keep in touch with them in another way. |
| Check for the correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation. |
| If the employer does not contact you, and you really want an interview, call them. |
