08/28/2013
Question from Job Seeker: Having already applied to a particular job, is it ever smart to call the person making the hiring decision...maybe to allow them to associate a voice with an application and make sure they take a look at you? Some ads say "no phone calls please," but if it doesn't, do you ever recommend it?
Answer from Job Coach: I believe that this is a basic balance scale question… What do you have to gain v what could you lose? Since we know that 90% of applicant responses aren’t even looked at*, then if the call goes well, you could gain 90 percentage points. If the call doesn’t go well, you lose 10. If it were me, I would make the call. In fact, I would probably make the call even if it [the ad] said “no phone calls please.”
There is a way to be strategic about the phone call… Instead of calling regarding that particular job, you could call and say, “I just applied to ABC Position, if I share my skills with you, can you tell me what other opportunities are available where I [my skills] could add value to your organization?”
Follow-up from Job Seeker: This helps a lot and makes a ton of sense! I agree.
Thanks so much! Really enjoy leaning on you for advice.
Result from Job Seeker: Job Seeker called to inform us [Recruit GAAP] that the strategy worked. He has obtained an interview with a company for a job he really wants!
The job coaching program by Recruit GAAP is free for applicants. If you would like to participate in the program, simply apply to a job and select “personalized experience” during the application process.
Legal Disclaimer: As always, advice is free and your personal results may vary!
*Data obtained through survey results at Recruit GAAP