What is a Cold Job Search?

 

A cold job search is when you initiate contact with an employer, even though you don’t have any networking contacts. You can do this by either sending a letter or making a phone call.

Generally this method is used when:

  • You are really interested in working for a company (or getting an internship, or a research experience) but don’t see any openings posted.
  • You want to learn more about a career, and develop networking contacts (or arrange an informational interview)
  • You are really interested in a company (or an internship, or a research lab) and someone gives you a name of a person you have never met.

Don’t just start dialing, though. Before you make a call or send any letters, you need to do a substantial amount of research. You want the first contact you have to be polished and professional.

Before you make a cold job contact, you will need to:

  • Know who you are. What are your strengths and weaknesses, and what will you bring to the workplace?
  • Clearly identify what you are looking for. You want to present the impression of a focused, thoughtful individual looking for the right match between employer and employee. “I need a job” is not enough.
  • Be able to explain why you are looking for the position you want. How does it relate to your long-term goals?

 

Take the time to:
Develop a set of letters and resumes

Develop a set of pitches (mini-commercials to sell your talents)

Practice!
Try your pitch or letter on a friend or coworker. Does it sound goofy? By reading it out loud to a real person, you will get a sense of how well it is working—and how comfortable you are approaching people you don’t know.

Identify potential contacts using your current network of contacts, Career Search, and other tools.

  • Identify potential employers for your field by location or industry.
  • Identify related employers, competitors, and basic contacts within a company, association, organization or firm.

Research your target

Target employers with online tools, including news, industry news sites, and even employee web boards and web resources.

Keep a log to track your networking activity:

  • Dates of correspondence, follow up calls
  • Names of ALL contacts
  • Notes on timelines for hire, application processes etc.

 

This seems like a lot of work! Is it really worth it?