Once you've identified job possibilities, it's time for Step Four: contacting employers. You initially make contact in three ways: phone calls, letters (including emails) and application forms. However you interact with potential employers (and that includes secretaries and assistants!), remember that your goal is get an interview. It's too soon to think about hiring; you just need some quality face-to-face time. To get an interview, you must convey one message: "I'll work hard and you can trust me." Everything about you must carry this theme. That's why in every contact with an employer you (or your writing) need to:
Above all, you should focus on what the employer needs and how you can help. To paraphrase former president John F. Kennedy: Ask not what the employer can do for you, but what you can do for the employer. If you show that you want to help the employer, you will be much more effective than if you talk about how the job — and its paycheck — will benefit you. Finally, it helps to be calm. Showing panic and desperation during the job hunt turns people away. When you see an ad or hear about a job, take a deep breath. You have some time. Do the research and preparation needed to turn in a focused, attention-grabbing cover letter and a customized application form and / or résumé. If, by chance, the position closes in an hour and you don't have time to complete the application, let it go. The job either wasn't for you or something will happen and they'll re-open it and you'll get your shot. Either way, don't turn in something sloppy. It won't help you get an interview and it may hurt your chances in the future. And remember, the goal of Step Four is to get an interview!
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Step Four: Contact