One of HRnet’s Facebook friends (Lisa from Sydney) has asked us the best ways to get passed the employer’s ‘gatekeeper’ to help secure an interview. Great question Lisa and we hope to give you and others some tips to improve your chances.
When an employer advertises for employees directly (ie, not through an agency), there are typically two types of campaigns. The first is an open campaign, where all contact numbers / name / company name etc are divulged in the body of the job ad. The other is the ‘apply online’ without any contact information.
In the first case, the employer publishes their details with an unwritten authority to make contact to discuss your application, your background and to learn more about the position. In this case, it’s a great idea to pick up the phone and make contact directly. However, you should really prepare yourself with a few important questions and a quick spiel as to why you should get the interview. There’s nothing worse than hearing ‘so can you tell me more about the job’…WHAT DO YOU WANT TO KNOW?
Where the contact details are missing, it’s a little more tricky. I do believe candidates should follow the application instructions – if they request a cover letter and 4 page resume, then this is a given and must be adhered to. Often employers will include some ‘rules’ of application, and if they are not adhered to, the application will be disregarded immediately, irrespective of the calibre of the candidate.
So Lisa, our advise would be to follow the application requirements as a first step. Then I would identify some (perhaps 3) pertinent questions to the position, and a paragraph as to why you would love to be considered. Be very courteous and aware of their time and ask the employer if they have 2 minutes to chat. Also, ensure you confirm that you have already applied as required. From here, the employer shouldn’t be offended with your contact and it may improve their recollection of you when they process applications. I wouldn’t suggest asking for an interview – perhaps that’s a little presumptive.
Finally – how do you find out who to call? The most effective way is to contact reception and advise that you wish to apply for ‘x’ position which was advertised on Seek, and would like to address your application directly to the relevant person. Perhaps this is a little controversial, but I’d then call back a few hours later and ask to speak to that person by name. Often the gatekeeper will send your call straight through, simply because you know their name. If not, perhaps a direct letter to the decision maker with a print out of your cv and tailored cover letter could help. As long as you’ve also applied via their preferred means.
Lisa, we hope this helps and wish you luck with your search.
HRnet.