During a job search, most people regularly visit job posting sites such as the Job Bank. That’s good! On The Employment Journey website, there is an extensive list of more job posting sites to research jobs advertised on PEI via this link.
But did you know most jobs are not advertised?
To increase your chances of landing a job, arrange an Informational Meeting with an employer or manager. A 15 minute conversation lets you find out about the company, build a relationship with a new contact, and gain great job leads.
Before the meeting
Prepare an up-to-date resumé. Also, narrow down a list of companies you would like to work for.
To find an extensive list of employers, click here.
To research companies further, especially to determine the way they hire, check out their hiring practices.
Also
- Check out company’s website.
- Talk to family and friends about the companies.
If you need more help connecting to employers, talk to PEI Career Development Services or other employment service providers. Click here.
Making the call
Many employers prefer that applicants introduce themselves in person. You are doing just that by making a call to arrange to meet the employer. In this case you are not sure if a job opening exists.
- Find out the name of the employer or manager before making the call. This will help you feel more at ease.
- If you were referred by someone, mention their name.
- Say you are presently looking for work in a job related to the type of work their company does. You can say how interested you are in their company and that you have researched them as best you could. Tell them you realize they may not have a job opening at this time but your main interest is to know more about the company.
- Ask for a time to meet at their convenience.
During & After the meeting
During the meeting:
- Present yourself well. Consider the impression made by your clothes and appearance.
- Your handshake should be firm, and make comfortable eye contact.
- Walk and carry yourself with confidence.
- Bring your resumé and calling card to give to the employer.
- A calling card is a business card with your contact information and key words to describe your skills and work experience. Check out the example below:
Questions to ask the employer/manager
- What services or products do they provide?
- How long have they been in business?
- How many staff, and what are their titles and duties?
- What’s a typical day at their workplace?
- Future plans for the company?
- Future positions they might need to fill?
- What are the requirements for the job(s)?
- How do they advertise jobs?
- How do they set up their hiring procedures?
- Show the employer your resumé and ask if your background would be a fit in the event of a job opening.
- Ask if the employer knows of other employers who may be looking for someone with your background.
- If applicable, ask if you can contact the employer in a few weeks to follow up.
After the meeting:
- Send a letter or an e-mail thanking the person for their time.
- Let the person know what may have resulted from your meeting (i.e. new contact, job lead or job offer).