Making speculative applications
Creating your own opportunities
A speculative application is a proactive way to secure a job or work experience by directly approaching an employer or organisation that hasn’t advertised any opportunities.
This approach allows you to target specific companies or industries, express your interest, and showcase your skills, increasing your chances of being considered for future roles.
A speculative application will involve sending an email or covering letter with your CV to an organisation.
Why should I do a speculative application?
- Tap into hidden job markets. Many roles aren’t advertised. By reaching out directly to companies, you might discover opportunities that aren't widely known.
- Show initiative. Employers value proactive candidates. A well-crafted speculative application demonstrates your enthusiasm and interest in the company.
- Personalised approach. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the company’s needs, making it more impactful.
- Bypass traditional recruitment. Speculative applications can often bypass the formal stages of the recruitment process, such as initial screenings, psychometric tests, and video interviews. This direct approach can sometimes lead to an interview or an informal coffee chat with decision-makers.
How do I identify potential employers?
- Research. Identify companies that align with your career goals. Use LinkedIn, industry websites, and talk to us to find potential employers.
- AI tools. Leverage AI-powered tools like ChatGPT or LinkedIn’s AI-based company recommendations to identify companies that match your interests and skills.
- Google Maps search. Use Google Maps to explore local businesses or companies within a specific area. This can be especially useful for finding smaller, lesser-known organisations.
- Networking. Connect with professionals and Nottingham alumni who might offer insights or introductions.
- Company culture. Check that the organisations values and goals resonate with you. Consider smaller companies where your application might stand out more.
How do I craft my speculative application?
- Tailor your CV. Focus on relevant experiences and skills that match the company’s work. Highlight any connections to their recent projects or values. Read more advice on our CV page.
- Personalise your cover letter. Address it to a specific person, if you can, by contacting the company and finding out who is the best person. Explain why you’re interested in the company and how you can contribute. Find out more on our covering letters page.
- Identify skills and qualities to highlight: Start by reviewing their job postings, even for unrelated roles, to spot recurring themes. Explore the company’s mission statement, values, and recent projects, to understand their priorities. Use LinkedIn to see what skills are common among current employees in similar roles. If you need support in identifying what skills a particular job role needs, then use the job profiles on Prospects website. You might conclude that a tailored skills CV template
would suit the company better.
- Be specific. Mention particular areas of the company’s work that interest you. For example, if they’ve launched a new project or service, explain how you could add value.
How do I keep track of my applications?
- Create a tracker: Use a spreadsheet or app to track your applications. Include details like the company name, contact person, date of application, follow-up dates, and any responses.
- Organise by priority: Sort your applications by importance or interest level, helping you to focus on the most promising opportunities.
- Set reminders: Use calendar alerts to remind you when to follow up on applications. Staying organised ensures you don’t miss opportunities.
- Save all applications so you can refer back to them.
When and how should I follow up on my application?
- Timing: Give it a couple of weeks after sending your application before following up. This shows persistence without being pushy.
- Choose your method: Follow up with a professional email, which provides a record of your communication and is less intrusive. If the company is small, local, or you have a personal connection, a phone call or dropping by in person can make a strong, positive impression.
- Polite persistence: If you don’t hear back, a polite follow-up email can keep your application on their radar. Reiterate your interest, availability and ask about any upcoming opportunities.
The fortune is in the follow-up - Jim Rohn
- Quality over quantity: Sending fewer, highly-targeted applications is often more effective than a blanket approach using the same CV and cover letter.
- Gain feedback from us: Speak to a careers adviser for feedback on your application materials.
- Leverage AI: Consider using AI tools to help refine your CV and cover letters, ensuring they are tailored to each company.
- Stay positive: Not all speculative applications will lead to offers, but each one is an opportunity to refine your approach and build connections.
Additional resources for making applications