The Three Very Basic, Very Important Phone Hacks That Can Get You Your Next Job

In the age of the internet, a phone call is still a powerful tool in your job search. While tech does play a big part in the modern search, don’t discount some very basic, yet vitally important, things you can do with your phone (and without Wi-Fi). Whether it’s a new iPhone or your trusty old flip-phone, here are three things you can do right now that will make a huge difference.

Call Your Target Company

Did you know that 85% of all jobs are not published online? With all of the emphasis on online tools, people sometimes forget that some tried-and-true methods still work. Take calling target companies, for example. A wide-ranging  job search utilizing online ads costs a company time and money, making the idea of a candidate making the first move an attractive option. Calling a target company and identifying yourself as the ideal candidate looking for a job may open you up to opportunities that others won’t have. The key is to treat each call like a potential job interview. You may not always be able to reach a Hiring Manager, but if you do, be ready to sell yourself as the right match for the company.

“Professionalize” Your Voicemail (and Pick Up Your Phone, Whenever Possible)

If one of your target companies called your phone right now, what type of voicemail message would they hear? Hiring Managers take a lot into account when they hire, and a less-than-professional message could be a deal breaker. The key to a professional voicemail message is to keep it brief, simple, and clear. For example:

“Hello, this is ____, thank you for calling. I’m unavailable to take your call at this time, please leave your name, number, and a brief message and I will call you back as soon as I can. Thank you again and have a great day.”

Speaking of missed calls, be aware that Hiring Managers may call you from numbers that don’t give you a Caller ID. If you make a habit of letting these types of calls go to voicemail, make a point to not only answer, but to do so in a professional manner.

Make Phone Calls Your Primary Networking Method

In the age of short-form conversations via text and e-mail, there is something powerful about a phone call. Because networking during your job search is about forging personal connections, skip the e-mail, when possible, and make a phone call. Have a chat where job opportunities are only a small part of the conversation.  The goal isn’t just to mine someone for job search information, it’s about forming a relationship that is beneficial for all involved.