This is a question we get asked quite a bit and the answer is always – it depends.
Now this may seem like a bold move, but in the right circumstances this can pay off. You will certainly need to use your best judgment here but it is definitely something worth considering.
The phrase ‘straight from the horse’s mouth’ precisely sums up what you’re aiming to achieve here. Speaking directly with the hiring manager will have many benefits. If you get permission to speak with them and they seem quite open and willing to talk to you about the role, you can ask some great questions to give yourself that edge over the other candidates.
“Picking up the phone to inquire about a job vacancy can be a good way to make a strong first impression with a potential employer. This also gives you a chance to learn more about the company and even establish a rapport with the person on the other end of the phone.” : Wikihow
Here’s why you should speak with the hiring manager…
To dig a little deeper
You are trying to find out what type of candidate they are looking for. What are the most important qualities they would like to see?
Although the skills and qualifications required will have been stated on the job advert, it’s important to get a little more focus on exactly what the hiring manager is looking for. Sometimes the job advert doesn’t tell the whole story, so who better to ask than the manager!
Find out what a typical day is like in their company. What times of the day are the busiest? How do they treat their customers? What is the most important product they sell or service they offer?
These are all great questions to ask, and having this kind of inside scoop will certainly help you to write a better CV.
“Calling a recruiter beforehand can provide you with some vital clues as the recruitment process, and can help shape your application.” : CV Saviour
To show how passionate you are
Managers love talking about their team and the company they work for, as well as the service they provide. With that said, it’s now your turn to show how committed and passionate you are about the industry.
By meeting personally with the manager you are already one step ahead of your competition. You have instantly put a name to your CV and hopefully made a great first impression. If you can also show your keen interest to work for their company, you are much closer to a job interview.
A good manager will always be passionate about the company they work for and what they do. Try to make sure you match that passion, so you leave a lasting and positive impression.
To become memorable
When you send in your CV the hiring manager will not have the luxury of meeting you before they read what you have to offer. They may even snoop around on Facebook or Twitter to put a face to the name. So don’t forget to check your social media before you apply, and remove anything inappropriate of unprofessional.
Your CV is not the only way to make a positive impression. By meeting with a member of the team and hopefully the manager, you are able to connect the dots for them. Make sure you’re presentable, and looking your absolute best. Your presentation is everything, as you will not get a second chance to make the impact you want.
“Picking up the phone is always a good idea because it gives you a chance to establish a personal connection and shows an extra degree of initiative and confidence.” : Career FAQs
Extra tips –
- Listen to every word and never interrupt
- Be extremely positive and passionate about what they do and the role
- Explain how excited you are to get the opportunity to talk directly with the manager, and that you are looking forward to sending your application
- Thank them for giving up their valuable time to speak today
