I don't think they are hiring - should I even apply?

Jackie:

There is a company that I would love to work for and it is related to my education.  But I'm not even sure if they are hiring at this time.  I am hoping that I will make the point that I want to be part of their company.  Would it be considered odd to apply for a job that might not even be available?

Not odd at all.  Actually most jobs - abiout 85% of them - are not advertised. It's called the hidden job market.


I would suggest that you use these steps:

Prepare a brief resume that highlights your skills as they relate to that type of work.

Prepare a simple cover letter that states your request. You can say that you are very interested in working for their company and would like to meet with them briefly to find out what they look for when they are hiring. Make sure you call first to find out the name of the person you should address the letter to. Don't get into a telephone interview at that time though, just ask for the name, get the spelling and the title right and say thanks. Also you don't want HR. You want the name of the person who would be managing you if you got the job.

Finish your letter by saying that you'll call them in a week to arrange a brief meeting.

I know that sounds pushy but believe me, this job search strategy works. Hundreds and thousands of people send unsolicited resumes and no one follows up. This will make you stand out and demonstrate your ability to plan and follow through and to communicate effectively.

Then a week later you call and ask for a brief meeting. If they say they aren't hiring, you say yes that's fine but that you are really interested in working for them or for a similar company and you are doing your research.

You may not get an interview, but my clients get them a surprisingly high number of times and often end up with a job.

When you go in for the interview, have good smart questions ready because you've asked for this interview. Don't waste their time. Finish up by asking for their advice. Ask them, "If you were hiring, do I have the qualifications you're looking for?" and "What do you suggest I do to prepare myself for any future opportunities?"

Then send a thank you letter and down the road, as you follow up on their advice, send an updated resume.

This is the job search strategy that I coach client through.  But I also provide it in an ecourse format that takes you through each step in a lot more detail.  Go to my website and sign up for my newsletter to find out more.