Buzz
In today’s competitive job market, you may be tempted to simply walk into a local business and hand over your resume. However, this approach can be quite risky and might actually reduce your chances of securing the job. Learning the best practices for in-person job applications will improve your chances and set you up for success.
Steps to Take
Evaluating If an In-Person Application Is Right for You
Carefully Review the Job Listing. In today’s world, most job applications are handled online. Likewise, job advertisements for these positions are typically posted on the company’s website or on popular job platforms like Monster, Indeed, and Glassdoor (non-profits often use sites like Idealist and Opportunity Knocks).
- Always verify the company’s website to confirm they’re actively hiring. Job openings are generally listed under sections like "Careers" or "Employment Opportunities." Don’t show up uninvited if no positions are available.
- Check the job ad for instructions on how to apply. If it specifies applying in person, then it’s appropriate to do so.
- If the ad includes a "No calls" request, it’s likely they do not want you to show up in person unless they explicitly ask you to do so.
- Employers who typically accept in-person applications include restaurants, grocery stores, and various retail businesses. These employers often have urgent hiring needs and are looking to quickly fill positions. In many cases, they won’t require a resume to apply. Be sure to visit during a quieter time when a manager might be available to speak with you.
Look for a help wanted sign. Some businesses will display a sign reading "Help Wanted" or something similar at their entrance. If you spot one of these signs, it’s a good indication that you can ask about available positions in person.
- Ensure that you are well-presented when entering, even if you're only inquiring about a job and not submitting a resume or cover letter. Make sure your hair is neat, your breath is fresh, and your clothing is wrinkle-free.
- While you don't need to wear a full suit just to pick up an application, it’s important to look professional. Consider wearing slacks, a business skirt, a blazer, and a button-down shirt tucked in neatly.
Avoid showing up unannounced. You may think visiting the office after submitting your application will demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role, but this could actually be seen as intrusive or disrespectful by the hiring manager.
- Keep in mind that hiring managers often handle a large volume of applications, and they’re looking for candidates who can follow instructions and respect their process. Ignoring these instructions will likely leave a negative impression and make you memorable for the wrong reasons.
How to Apply In Person
Bring a resume. To be taken seriously in your job application, it’s essential to provide the required documents. Most positions will require both a resume, detailing your work history, and a cover letter, which explains your interest in the role and why you’re a great fit.
- For your resume, list your relevant work experiences in chronological order. Include your employer’s name, your job title, and the dates you worked there. Use active verbs like "created," "executed," "designed," "produced," and "met target" to describe your responsibilities and accomplishments.
- Highlight transferable skills. If you're applying for a job in a new field, emphasize skills from past positions that will be valuable in the new role. These may include conflict resolution, customer service, communication, or problem-solving abilities.
Bring a cover letter. A cover letter is your chance to showcase your personality and explain why you're passionate about the job. It should complement your resume, not simply repeat it. Use this opportunity to demonstrate your writing skills and highlight why you're a strong candidate for the position.
- Your cover letter should be one page, clearly structured. Most cover letters consist of three paragraphs, each addressing a specific point.
- In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and explain which job you’re applying for. Mention why you’re a good fit for the company.
- The second and third paragraphs should focus on specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your qualifications for the job. Include details of accomplishments that highlight your strengths. Did you plan a successful event at your previous job? Were you able to exceed performance targets?
- End with a thank-you note and include your contact information, such as your phone number or email address.
Bring any extra materials. The items you need to bring may vary depending on the position, but might include things like a writing sample or a portfolio of your creative work.
- If requested, include a list of references or letters of recommendation.
- Make sure to carry these materials in a folder or portfolio to prevent them from getting wrinkled or damaged as you transport them.
Dress professionally. When submitting your resume and cover letter, you should present yourself as competent and professional. You don’t need to wear a full suit and tie, but you should look as though you could represent the company well.
- Men should opt for business casual attire, such as slacks or khakis with a button-down shirt and blazer. Women can wear similar business slacks, a blouse, or a pencil skirt or professional dress.
- Ensure your shoes are suitable for a professional setting—avoid sneakers. Black or navy dress shoes with a heel under 3 inches (7.6 cm) are ideal.
Be courteous. When entering the office, greet the receptionist or administrative assistant with a smile and introduce yourself. Let them know you’re there to submit your application materials. They may take the materials from you or direct you to the appropriate person.
- Avoid being rude or dismissive to the front desk staff. The hiring manager may ask the receptionist for feedback about applicants, and you want to be remembered for the right reasons.
Keep it short. Avoid asking for a tour of the office or trying to meet your potential boss during your visit. This may be seen as an inconvenience to the office staff.
- Don’t follow up repeatedly with the receptionist about the status of your application. If the company is interested in interviewing you, they will reach out. Don’t call or email them to ask for an update.
Conducting Informational Interviews
Consider requesting an informational interview. If there’s a company or industry you’re interested in but there are no current openings, asking for an informational interview could be a great option.
- An informational interview allows you to speak with someone whose career you admire, perhaps in a field you want to transition into, or someone working at your ideal company.
- Keep in mind that this is not a job interview, but rather a chance for you to gain insight into their career journey, receive advice, and potentially expand your professional network.
Leverage your network. If you have someone specific in mind to speak with, great! If not, start by looking within your own network. Consider reaching out to alumni from your high school, college, or grad school, as you’ll already have shared experiences that could make them more inclined to assist you.
- You can search alumni directories or turn to professional networking platforms like LinkedIn to find these contacts.
- Additionally, you might ask mutual friends or colleagues for introductions to potential interviewees.
Make your request politely. Send a message via email or LinkedIn to request an informational interview. Express your interest in learning about their career path, and offer to meet for coffee or at their office.
- Although it may feel uncomfortable to approach someone you’ve never met, most people are likely to be flattered by such a request.
Be well-prepared for the interview. Even though informational interviews are informal, it’s important to come with thoughtful questions. For example, ask, "What kind of experience do you have in this field?"
- If the person is in a more advanced or specialized role, ask about their journey to that position and the responsibilities they hold in their current role.
- By preparing questions, you show respect for the interviewee’s time and ensure the conversation is productive.
- Keep the interview concise. Aim for 20 to 30 minutes, unless the interviewee offers more time.
Show your appreciation. After your informational interview, it’s crucial to send a thank-you note or email. Express your gratitude for their time and insights, and let them know you value the opportunity to learn from them.
Stay connected. Informational interviews are a valuable tool for building your network. If you happen to run into your interviewee at an industry event or conference, make sure to greet them and maintain the connection.
- The key benefit is that when a job opens up at your ideal company, you’ll already have a contact to reach out to.
