Contacting employers

First impressions are important, so follow our top tips for sounding confident when you contact potential employers.

"If you're unprepared and start stumbling you won't be off to a good start."

I've seen a job I want to apply for but I have to call for an application form. What should I expect?

Many companies ask people to call as a way of sifting out suitable and unsuitable candidates, so be prepared to answer some questions before they agree to send you an application form. They might ask where you saw the job advertised, if you have any relevant experience, why you want to work there and what your salary expectations are. If you're unprepared and start stumbling you won't be off to a good start.

Now I'm nervous – how can I make sure I'm prepared before phoning?

Read the advertisement thoroughly – particularly the job title and job description
Find out a bit about the company and the job so you can prepare some questions
Call from a quiet room where you won't be disturbed
If you don't have a phone, ask a friend or neighbour whether you can pay to use theirs
If you have to use a public phone, make sure you have plenty of change – even better use a topped-up phone card
Have a copy of your CV to hand so you can answer any questions relating to your education and employment history
Have a pen and paper ready in case you need to make any notes
Have your diary at hand in case you are asked to an interview

What if they want to interview me over the phone?

Phone interviews are becoming more popular with employers. Never agree to be interviewed straightaway, as you'll be unprepared. You should always ask to be interviewed at a more convenient time so you can do your research and be ready for any questions that are thrown at you.

What about applying in writing?

You may have to write a letter in response to an advertised job. It's usually better to type the letter and to either send it by post, or attach it to an email. Some employers ask specifically for a handwritten letter, others may not bother reading it unless it's typed, so check the advert to see if this is required.

How can I make sure the letter looks professional?

Do a rough draft first – read it through to make sure it makes sense, and that there are no spelling mistakes
Use black type or ink on plain A4 paper
Only type/write on one side of the paper
Include your full address and telephone number
Include the full date
Include the name of the person you are writing to and the company's address
Be clear and concise with personal details that are relevant to the job
Sign your name and print or type your full name underneath your signature

Ask a friend to do a role play so you can practise your phone call. Rehearse what to say and speak clearly and confidently.
Check out the company's website and read the job description, if there is one, in advance, so you're clued up and ready to answer their questions.
Make sure your letter looks professional by using this formal letter writing guide.
Don't rely on the computer's spell check – which is often stuck on US spelling – double check words you're not sure about in a reputable dictionary, too.
Do you have to fill out an application form? Read our guide to filling in application forms to make sure you get it right.
Don't just sit back and wait for an interview start preparing right now, so if you are called you'll be prepared.

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