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ReConnect Africa is a unique website and online magazine for the African professional in the Diaspora. Packed with essential information about careers, business and jobs, ReConnect Africa keeps you connected to the best of Africa.

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Dear Career Coach,
I work in quite a niche area. I’m looking to move on in my career and I would like to approach some organisations directly. What’s the best way to do this?
Dear Career Coach

I work in quite a niche area and there are relatively few companies that would find my specialist experience valuable. I’m looking to move on in my career and I would like to approach some of these organisations directly. What’s your advice on the best way to do this?

 

Even when a company is not specifically hiring, it is always worth considering a direct approach. However, do be prepared to hear ‘Thanks, but we don’t currently have any vacancies’ rather than an automatic invitation to an interview.

Having said that, you can increase your chances of getting a positive reception to an ‘on spec’ application by keeping in mind the following:

    • Do your research on the company or companies that you would like to approach and be clear that you know enough about their business to warrant your application. Use your network of contacts to find out as much as you can about their operations, strategy, market and potential problems and challenges.
    • Explore whether the organisations you have in mind operate an employee referral system. This is where existing employees are offered a finder’s fee for referring new hires to the business. Where such a scheme exists, you can strategically expand your network (LinkedIn is one route to consider) to secure an introduction to a current employee.
    • Research the right person to whom to send a speculative enquiry; in some instances it’s better to go directly to the department or business head, rather than Human Resources. Whichever you decide, make sure your e-mail or letter is sent to a named person at the company.
    • Whichever means of communication you choose, make sure that it is short, focused and that you clearly set out why you are writing, the kind of opportunities that you believe you are suited for and why, and also personalise the information so that it is clear that you are interested in this particular company and not simply sending out random enquiries.

If you have a question for our Career Coach, e-mail us at

careers@ReConnectAfrica.com


  • Enclose a CV that is up-to-date and targeted towards the type of role you are looking for in that company. Carefully proof read both your CV and application letter/e-mail before sending them in.
  • In your application, ask for an informal interview, making it clear that you are not expecting to be recruited immediately but that you are keen to explore further how your skills could potentially fit with that company’s needs.
  • Follow up with a phone call and try to secure an informal interview or even a coffee and a chat to take things forward.

Recruitment costs charged by recruitment consultants can be high and many companies are willing to explore direct applications that suit their needs and thereby save themselves the costs in commission to recruiters.

However, to overcome the hurdle of an unsolicited application, you must ensure that your skills and experience are of the kind that will be sought after by the company you approach and that you do as much homework as possible beforehand.

All the best!

Need some help to solve your career dilemma?  Whether you are a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, our experienced careers coaches can work with you – on an individual or group basis – to help you get back on track with your career. 

From online CV checking to face-to-face coaching and presentation skills training to making the right impact at interview, our careers services will help you reach your goals. 

Contact us now to discuss your needs:  careers@reconnectafrica.com

 

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