Cold-Calling for Job Opportunities - Job Search Advice

Summary

In this video, Dana Monagle from 'Cut the Crap Get a Job' emphasizes the importance of cold calling as a strategy for job seekers. She outlines three scenarios where cold calling is beneficial: when you see a job ad without knowing anyone at the company, when you know someone but not the hiring manager, and when you want to work at a company but don't know anyone there. Dana offers practical advice on how to make effective cold calls, including reaching out to contacts, asking for referrals or references, and the importance of formal communication. She also stresses the need to apply and network simultaneously, and to avoid using social media platforms for job applications without proper follow-up.

Takeaways

• 📞 Cold calling is an essential part of a job search strategy.
• 🔍 Three scenarios for cold calling: seeing a job ad without knowing anyone at the company, knowing someone not directly related to the job, and knowing someone at your target company but not in the hiring process.
• 🤝 If you know anyone at the company, reach out to them for potential referrals or references.
• 📧 Always ask for permission before using someone's name as a referral or reference.
• 🏢 If you don't know anyone, try to get the name of someone who can forward your application to the hiring manager.
• 🔗 Both cold applying and building relationships are important in the cold calling process.
• 💡 Use LinkedIn to identify potential contacts within a company but follow up with a formal approach.
• 🙅 Avoid using social networking site emails to pursue a job or refer someone; instead, request a business email for a proper introduction.
• ✉️ Send a formal cover letter and resume after getting approval to contact a professional at their workplace.
• 💼 Maintain professionalism and follow proper etiquette when cold calling for job opportunities.

Q & A

What is the main topic of Dana Monagle's discussion in the video?

The main topic is cold calling for job opportunities as part of a job search strategy.

Why does Dana Monagle suggest that cold calling should be included in a job search portfolio?

Cold calling is suggested because it can help reach out to companies where one might not have any direct connections, and it can increase the chances of getting noticed by potential employers.

What are the three types of reasons Dana Monagle describes for cold calling for jobs?

The three reasons are: 1) Seeing a job advertised but not knowing anyone at the company, 2) Seeing a job advertised and knowing someone at the company but not the hiring manager, and 3) Knowing someone at a target company but not knowing if there are any available positions in your field.

What is the first rule Dana Monagle provides for successful cold calling?

The first rule is to contact anyone you know at the company through LinkedIn or personal contacts, explaining your job search goals and asking for a referral or to be a reference.

What is the difference between a referral and a reference according to Dana Monagle?

A referral is someone who can refer your name to someone else in the company, while a reference is someone who can speak on your behalf about your skills and fit for a position.

Why is it important to ask for permission before using someone's name as a referral or reference?

Asking for permission ensures that the contact is willing to vouch for you and that you are not misrepresenting their willingness to support your job search.

What is the second tip Dana Monagle gives for cold calling if you don't know anyone at the target company?

The second tip is to try to get the name of someone who can forward your application to the hiring manager, preferably someone you can contact directly rather than sending it to a general HR email.

Why is it important to both apply and build relationships during the cold calling process?

Applying shows your interest in the position, while building relationships can lead to referrals and a better understanding of the company culture and opportunities.

What is considered bad form in cold calling according to Dana Monagle?

Using social networking website emails to pursue a position or refer someone else without a proper introduction and request for business contact information is considered bad form.

How should one approach someone on LinkedIn or other social networks for job search assistance?

One should describe their job search goal briefly, ask for the person's business email, and then follow up with a formal cover letter and resume after getting approval to contact them at work.

What is the final piece of advice Dana Monagle gives for successful cold calling?

The final advice is to be mindful of the dos and don'ts of cold calling and to approach it with the intention of building a network and applying your best efforts.