Reaching out without an advertisement.
WHY IT WORKS
Many roles are filled before advertisement, and unsolicited approaches face less competition.
WHO TO CONTACT
Someone who would manage the role, rather than a general address.
HOW TO FIND THEM
Company site, professional networks, published material.
WHAT TO SEND
A short message stating who you are, what you do, and why them.
WHAT TO INCLUDE
Something specific about their work A link to evidence A clear, small ask
WHAT A SMALL ASK LOOKS LIKE
Whether they are hiring, or would be open to a conversation.
WHAT NOT TO ASK FOR
A job, immediately A long call, from a stranger
WHAT TO AVOID
Long messages Attachments in a first contact Anything that reads as mass-sent
WHY BREVITY MATTERS
Busy people respond to short, specific messages.
WHAT TO DO IF THERE IS NO REPLY
Follow up once, after a reasonable period.
WHAT TO DO AFTER THAT
Move on.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Mostly silence.
WHY THAT IS NORMAL
It is not a judgement on you.
WHAT MAKES THE APPROACH STRONGER
Having done something relevant to them first.
WHAT EXAMPLES LOOK LIKE
Using their product and reporting something useful Writing about their problem space
WHAT THAT DEMONSTRATES
Genuine interest, which claims cannot.
