Sometimes known as cold calling, directly contacting an employer (even if they are not currently advertising a job opening) can be an effective job hunting strategy.

Direct contact involves developing a list of employers you would like to work for and utilizing information gained through researching the employer to then directly contact the company. The goal is to meet face-to face with employers (interviews). The more interviews and contact that a job seeker has with potential employers, the more likely one will receive a job offer.

Directly contacting employers can be emotionally difficult. Many people are uncomfortable, as directly contacting employers takes a lot of preparation, confidence, and persistence. Job seekers are often worried they might offend the employer and hurt their chances for employment. As a job seeker, it is important to remember that you are not asking for a handout, but looking for a mutually beneficial situation.

1 - Send your resume. Always address your cover letter and resume to the personnel department or to a specific manager. Research the company and tailor your cover letter to their needs. You can also improve your chances of success by following up a direct mailing with a phone call. Mailing generic cover letters with attached resumes to employers is generally not very productive. Avoid e-mailing your resume in a direct contact situation, as most HR people will automatically delete the e-mail as spam.

2 - Interview for information. Contact managers in organizations by phone or letter to request an appointment to discuss the information you have obtained by reading annual reports, trade literature, news reports, etc. For example: "I understand XYZ is planning to expand its foreign market. I am completing an international business degree and am very interested in this expansion. It seems a very progressive move. May I have 20 minutes of your time to discuss it?" Indicate your desire to meet with them even if they have no positions currently available in their department. Some job seekers find it useful to state that they will be looking for jobs in the near future, but are now just gathering information about organizations. In this case, you can also ask to speak directly with someone at the company in your specific career field. Ask about the status of the field, employment trends, and suggestions for additional contacts. This will help make you a more informed/better candidate, and you may learn of other potential employers.

• Come prepared with knowledgeable questions for your appointment.
• During your appointments with department managers, emphasize your knowledge and interest in their organizations.
• Always follow up all interviews with thank-you letters, phone calls, and, when appropriate, resumes that have been revised based on information and suggestions provided by managers.
• Even if managers have no positions available, once they have had a personal interaction with you, they may think of you the next time they have (or hear of) an appropriate opening.
• Expect rejection! It goes with the territory. Don't take rejection personally.
• Maintain a good attitude and a healthy sense of humor.