If you are repeatedly unlucky with jobs, then it may be time to write a speculative application to get the job you want. A speculative application shows that you are proactive and increases your chances of getting a job.

But what exactly is a Speculative Application?

A speculative application is sent to an organization expressing interest in potential job openings, even if no specific role has been advertised. It involves sending a cover letter and your CV. This is a very good way to highlight your skills to the employer.

We know today’s job market is very competitive, so we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to creating an effective speculative application.

A speculative application consists of the following

1. A cover letter

2. Your updated CV

Begin by Researching the Target Company

The first thing you need to do before sending your application is to research the company or the job position you want to apply for. Make sure you completely understand the company and what they want in an employee. This is important because it will help you make your application effective.

Step 1

Study the organization’s mission statement, vision, and values. This helps you better understand the company and increases your chances of your application being considered.

Step 2

Identify who the important Contacts are. This can be done by using LinkedIn or the company’s website to find relevant contacts, For example, hiring managers, recruiters, or department heads.

If you send your application to a specific individual, it increases the impact by a ton.

Step 3
Show the company that you are aware of any recent news about the company, such as new projects, or any challenges they might be facing. This shows that you are a smart applicant who truly cares about the company and its well-being.

You can do this by following the company’s social media accounts to keep yourself updated with all incoming news.

How do I put together a Speculative Application?

Let’s talk about the most important part of this application:

The Cover Letter

As we’ve discussed so far, you need to tailor your approach to each company; this means that in your cover letter, you should explain exactly what role you are looking for and why you have chosen that company. You can do this in one of the following ways:

1. Refer to any key project they are working on, and explain how you will be a valuable addition to the team.
2. Talk about the aims of the company, and why they are similar to your own aims and values.
3. Explain that you are really interested in the work done by the organization, then highlight any relevant skills or experiences you might have that will help the organization.

Always keep in mind that the emphasis of the whole cover letter should be on what you can bring to the team—the value you can provide as an employee.

Avoid talking too much about what the company can do for you. You don’t want to come across as desperate. Instead, the cover letter should be dignified and confidently written. Don’t forget to check out some samples to make sure you get the format right.

Make sure your CV highlights relevant skills

Take your time to customize your CV for the position you want. As mentioned before, to do this, you need to research the company as thoroughly as possible.

A basic CV should show your professional history, academic background, and key skills. You can add other sections to your CV if they are relevant to the position, such as any academic achievements.

How to highlight relevant skills and work experience?

It is extremely important to highlight skills that will be valuable to the company. You can do this by looking at past job descriptions for a role similar to one you are applying for. In this way, you can figure out the specific skills that are required in this position or by your target company.

You can also look at any current vacancy they might have to figure out personal specifications they might prefer. For example, your target company may prefer employees who are good team players. In that case, make sure to highlight past experiences where you worked well in a team setting.

Who should I send my application to?

A speculative application can only be helpful if sent to the right person. You need to make sure you send your application to someone who has hiring power.

In order to do this, you have to send your application to a named contact. You can send it to a hiring manager, a recruiter, a department head, etc. Just make sure to address the person by their name.

Try searching on LinkedIn for the contact details; if that is not helpful, then you can check the company website to find relevant information.

You can also make a phone call to ask who is in charge of recruitment. But keep in mind, whether you reach out through email, Linkedin Notes, or calls, always be polite in all your dealings with the employer.

When to follow up with your application.

After around 7 to 10 business days have passed since you sent the application, it’s time to follow up. You can do this by calling the person you sent the application to.

Remember, here it is important to make sure you don’t pester or annoy the person you sent the application to. Just give them a quick, polite call asking for a follow-up. If they don’t have any positive news for you. Don’t let it get you down! Just thank them for their time and move on to the next company.

Conclusion

While a speculative application is often considered a shot in the dark, but if done right, it can be hugely helpful in securing the perfect job for you. The key is to do your research and stay persistent.

And if your application is not successful, you can always use it as a learning opportunity to see what you can do better next time. You might get some pushback, but personal contact with experienced people can be good for your career in the long run. Contact Enrollmate today!

Happy job hunting!