Step 3 :
CONTACTING THE EMPLOYER OR ORGANISATION
There are several ways that you can make your initial contact with the employer or organisation :
• Through a formal letter or email : It is important that you identify a named individual with their correct title to whom to send your correspondence as it will be more likely to succeed that way .
• In person : You could call-in to the organisation to make your enquiries . Make sure you are presentable in terms of your dress , approach and attitude .
• Pick up the phone : When ringing the employer you are likely to in the first instance speak to a receptionist . At this stage it is important to identify who would be the best person in the organisation to talk to . Sometimes the receptionist may be willing to tell you the best way to contact the decision maker ( e . g . email , letter by post , or calling in in person ), but don ’ t expect this from every call !
• Personal introduction : If your lead comes from your network of contacts , perhaps they can introduce you to the employer or arrange one ? Attend Careers and Employability sessions such as Coffee with Employers or networking events for the chance to make connections .
• Social media : Many recruiters will now engage with potential applicants via LinkedIn so assess what is appropriate in the sector you are exploring .
For more information visit students . linkedin . com
TIPS FOR SUCCESS :
• Perseverance : You may find that you experience rejection from employers who are unable or unwilling to help you . This is fine and a fact of life . Thank them for their time and move on to the next employer or organisation on your list . Be positive in rejection as they may have an opportunity in the future .
• Benefits to the employer : Identifying what you can bring to the employer or organisation will help you to persuade them to offer you a placement . It might be just your time , you might be able to complete a project , or you may have knowledge and skills they would benefit from .
• Be specific : The more specific you can be about your requirements ( i . e . practicalities you have identified , the experiences and skills you wish to develop , and how this all fits in with your wider aspirations ), the better . This means you don ’ t leave the employer or organisation to do your thinking for you , but also means you are more likely to secure an experience that meets your expectations .
• Use a range of contact methods : Try them out !
• Explain what you would like to learn or experience : Explaining what you hope you gain will show the employer that you will make best use of the opportunity they will provide but it will also make it less likely that you end up with work experience that does not meet your needs .
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