SUGGESTIONS FOR MAKING

COLD CALLS

by

Bob Raikes, NCCC

Cold calls are another technique to be used in your job search. Many job seekers find it very difficult to knock on doors and there is no doubt it may not work for all of us. However, it is still another method of getting interviews and your resumes out there.

STEPS IN COLD CALLING IN PERSON

1. Target firms that you know will use your skills. Use the same sources that you

would for targeting a company. Peers, friends and former co-workers can also

guide you as to where to visit.

Business directories, yellow pages, manufacturers lists etc.

Visiting cafes, coffee shops etc. close to the firm you are going to visit may

give you the chance to find names of key persons to contact on the cold call.

2. Phone calls beforehand to a company can often give you the names of

HR managers, Dept. heads, Sales personnel and other key personnel.

3. You can also just drop by unannounced and try to meet with key personnel.

4. Always take numerous resumes in case you have the opportunity to leave

one with a key person.

5. DO TRY to set up an interview OR informational interview. Getting the name(s)

of key persons you need to talk with or to call is critical.

6. It is also helpful if you can get someone in the company to refer you OR permit

you to say that __________has suggested you call them.

7. Depending on the level of the job you are applying for - cold personal calls may

not be appropriate. Some professional and managerial positions may not lend

themselves to this technique.

WHAT DO I SAY ON A COLD CALL?

* Introduce yourself and indicate your are looking for a job in_______________OR

Give your 30 second elevator speech AND ask if the firm is hiring in the field that

you are working in. DO TRY TO SELL YOURSELF AND YOUR SKILLS.

*Attempt to get an interview if possible.

*Also ask what other firms may be hiring.

*Leave resumes for key persons and follow up with a phone call.

*See if the gatekeeper has any information about the company and their needs.

as well as if she is aware of other firms that may be hiring.

*The sales dept. may have some information on company needs and other firms who are hiring.

MAKING COLD TELEPHONE CALLS

(You may want to script what you want to say so that you can engage them in a

meaningful manner.)

*Get a gatekeeper or receptionist to give you information as to:

a. Who key persons are

b. If they are hiring

c. The best time of day to reach a key person you have learned about

d. Who else may be hiring

e. Persistence and patience are key because it may take many calls to get an

interview

COLD CALLING IN PERSON OR BY PHONE IS NOT FOR ALL OF US. HOWEVER, IT MAY PRODUCE FOR YOU. IF YOU HAVE NOT TRIED IT WHY NOT SEE IF IT CAN WORK FOR YOU?