A speculative application is one you send to a company you are interested in working for, even if they are not advertising any current vacancies.
We’ll answer these common questions about speculative applications:
- Why bother sending speculative applications?
- What types of opportunities can I send speculative applications for?
- How can I make a strong speculative application?
- How do I go about sending a speculative application?
Why bother sending speculative applications?
Many jobs (up to 70% - it is reckoned) are in the ‘hidden jobs market’ and never formally advertised and if you wait for your ideal job to be advertised you could be missing out on other potential opportunities.
What types of opportunities can I send speculative applications for?
You can apply speculatively for any opportunity, but here are some examples:
- Placements
- Graduate jobs
- Part-time work
- Volunteering
- Work experience/internship
How can I make a strong speculative application?
Every employer wants to feel special, and getting a generic application will often be off-putting for them. Try to tailor both your CV and cover letter to the employer and type of work. Sending a cover letter alongside a CV can help you to explain what you are looking for, why you are interested in this specific employer, and what relevant skills, experience, and attributes you can offer.
Check out our tips for writing a CV.
How do I go about sending a speculative application?
There isn’t one way to do this, but if you’re struggling, the following steps might help you:
- Contact the company and check if they are happy to receive a speculative application and find out who you should send and address this to. The company website or LinkedIn account may provide this info too.
- Tailor your CV and cover letter
- Send off your CV and cover letter
- Follow up politely after 2 weeks if you don’t hear back
Check out some tips on making a speculative application on Careers Centre 360
If you need more help, why not book a one-to-one careers appointment
