Navigating the hiring process can be difficult, even for experienced job seekers. Many professionals wonder about the etiquette of sending a professional resume to a company that has no open positions. By following basic rules, you can handle the application process with grace and professionalism.
Many job seekers restrict their search to conventional employment websites and corporate websites — a mistake that could cost them a dream job. Some businesses update their website's "Careers" page regularly, giving job seekers up-to-date information about current openings. For other businesses, particularly small companies with limited resources, website updates are often low on the priority list. Some companies simply avoid posting every job opening. In fact, research shows that approximately 80 percent of job openings are not advertised. If you do not see an appropriate job posting on your target company's page, it does not necessarily mean that all positions are filled. For these reasons, it is generally acceptable to send your professional resume to a company that has no current publicized openings.
In the absence of a job advertisement, your cover letter becomes an even more important tool. It should explain to the company why you are sending your professional resume out of the blue. What's more, the letter should hook the reviewer and make him want to know more about you. Think of a unique angle that communicates your enthusiasm and suitability. Do you have experience in a similar field? Were you referred to the company by a well-known industry professional? Do you have personal experience with the company's products or services? A compelling cover letter can convince the reviewer to save your resume for a future position opening or prompt him to get in touch immediately to talk about your prospects.
When sending a professional resume, it is common to use email. While this may be the most convenient option, you risk the chance that the message will not reach the correct person, or that it will get sent straight to the spam folder. One way to draw attention to yourself is to send a hard copy of your resume and cover letter. Business professionals can receive hundreds of emails a day from hopeful candidates, and a printed application can help you stand out from the crowd.
The rates of success depend on the company and its timeline — neither of which you can control. In some cases, your professional resume may arrive just before the HR department publishes a suitable job listing, giving you an edge over other candidates. If it arrives during a busy period or just after a round of hiring, however, your resume may get lost in the shuffle. While sending an unsolicited resume may not necessarily help you, it generally isn't detrimental to your job search.
By taking a proactive approach to your job search, you can distinguish yourself from applicants who follow the pack. Although sending your professional resume to a company without job postings does not necessarily guarantee success, it has the potential to take your job hunt to the next level.
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