Job Applying at the source?

Go to where the job action is!

By JG Côté

Getting the guts to go into a business or organization to try and "solicite" work can be a very intimitating task.  But if you are serious about getting a good job or career, this can sometimes be the best thing you do.

Showing up:

Go to the businesses and organizations you think you may want to work for.  This includes private and public (government) organizations.  Enquire as to whether or not they are hiring.  Many places have a large turn over rate and are constantly hiring new people.  They may not always tell you this but it is worth going back to see them several times over a period of time.  As well, many places will often accept applications and resumes from candidates.  If you are unsuccessful in getting an application or leaving a resume, it doesn’t mean that your visit was useless.  In fact, in many cases it may be an extremely valuable asset in the future.  If you do end up getting an interview, your face may already be familiar to the staff and you will likely feel more comfortable when it comes time to do the actual interview, seeing as you will be familiar with your surroundings. 

I have even heard of professionals that have walked into a company, told them they were interested in working for them, having an “informal interview” and walking away with a job the same day.  Although this is not that common, it emphasizes the importance of being persistent and selling yourself properly.  Don’t be afraid to go into a place a try selling yourself (without being overzealous of course), most offices are used to people coming in and asking for work or employment. 

Calling:

I am not a big fan of just calling offices to enquire about employment opportunities, however going to a place in person is not always an option.  If you do call a place, make sure you a polite and make very clear why you are calling.  Usually the receptionist will forward you to the appropriate person, however if not, I suggest that you ask to speak to the person in charge of employment, human resources or hiring services.  If you have to leave a message explain why you are calling and what you want from them (e.g., a call back).  Make sure you leave your name and phone number (say them slowly and clearly, very often when we are nervous we speak to quickly).  If the person you are calling does not return your call within the next day or two, it is acceptable to call them back again although I would not recommend leaving a second message.

Courtesy of: The Job Helper

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