If at least 80% of jobs aren't advertised, how then are you meant find them? One excellent way is to cold call.
Cold calling is where you introduce yourself over the phone to a potential employer and then ask them for a job. You might also be seeking work experience, or the name of someone who can help you further.
It's important of course to do your research. Ask your friends and relatives if they know someone who might be looking to hire new people. And investigate the companies you'll be cold calling - how many employees they have, what they make, etc.
You could be waiting a long time for that dream job ad to appear in your inbox. But with confidence, clarity and persistence, a cold call can create opportunities for work that you'd never imagine. And you won't be competing with 250 other applicants either.
Calling someone who has no idea who you are to ask them for work is scary. But it gets easier with practice and it does get results. So, use youthcentral's tips, take advice from our experts, do your research and get dialing.
Links to cold calling tips and advice
Cold calling - Tom's story
Tom's quest for a plumbing apprenticeship shows cold calling isn't easy, but persistence does pay.
Cold calling - tips for success
Advice for presenting yourself in the best possible manner over the phone, and for making cold calling work for you.
Jobseeker toolkit - cold calling
Watch the video and do the quiz - top employment experts provide quality advice on cold calling.
Phone interviews
A cold call can often lead to an on-the-spot interview, so it's best to be prepared.
