Wondering how to cold call for a job? While it can feel a bit nerve-wracking, it’s a great way to stand out in a crowded job market. Imagine reaching out directly to a potential employer, armed with your resume and a confident pitch. With the right approach, you can turn a cold call into a warm opportunity, opening doors to jobs you might not have otherwise been considered for.
That's exactly what happened with Lisa Barrow, a recruiter with over 20 years of experience and the current CEO of Kada Recruiting.
“When I was job hunting years ago, I applied online for a recruitment trainer role,” Barrow says. “My employer at the time used the company as a vendor, and I found a customer service contact in an old email. I decided to send her an email expressing my interest. She forwarded it to the hiring manager, who then reviewed my application and offered me an interview. I got the job, and later learned they had over 2,000 applicants for that particular position—it was highly likely that my resume would have never been reviewed by a person if I hadn’t reached out directly.”
Her story illustrates the power of the cold call approach for a job, even in highly competitive situations. This article will walk you through each step of cold calling, from mastering the phone call to crafting the perfect email.
First things first: What cold calling is
Essentially, cold calling for a job means making an unsolicited approach, whether or not there's an active job listing. It’s a proactive way to reach out to companies via phone call or email—regardless of whether they’ve posted open positions—by bypassing the traditional application process and contacting a recruiter or decision-maker directly.
While it may seem intimidating, this approach can help you uncover hidden opportunities or stand out in a competitive market. Your goal is to introduce yourself, express your interest in the company, and inquire about potential opportunities.
Is it OK to cold call for a job?
Is cold calling acceptable? Yes, cold calling is an acceptable approach when done professionally—just like cold emailing. But how do you cold call professionally? “The key is to ensure you’re minimally qualified or aligned with the company or role at hand,” Barrow says.
Once you know you could do the job—or fit right in at the company—you need to home in on a suitable target. “As a recruiter, I welcome cold calls, emails, and LinkedIn messages from potential candidates,” she says. “However, it's important to consider the relevance of who you're reaching out to.” Be strategic with your networking. Focus on people who can really help your job search—like people involved in hiring or who can recommend you and connect you to the right opportunities.
When making the cold call, stick to the main points and be respectful of the other person’s schedule. “A common mistake of people who do make a connection through a cold outreach is taking advantage of the other person’s time,” Barrow says. “If you secure a meeting, be sure not to go over the allotted time.”
Why should you consider cold calling
When a cold call is done right, it offers unique advantages that traditional job search methods may not. By taking the initiative and reaching out directly to employers, you can tap into opportunities that are often hidden from public job boards.
Here’s why cold calling can be a powerful tool in your job search:
- Access to hidden opportunities: Many jobs are filled through internal networks before they’re ever advertised.
- Display of initiative: Companies value candidates who proactively reach out, showing genuine interest and ambition.
- Networking potential: Even if there isn’t an immediate opening, cold calls can build connections that may lead to future opportunities or referrals. “Bringing yourself top of mind to people who may be interested in the future is never a bad idea,” Barrow says.
How to cold call for a job in 4 steps
So, how to cold call a company for a job? How do you introduce yourself in a cold call? There are probably many questions like these popping into your mind right now. These steps will help you prepare.
1. Research the company
Understand the company’s products, services, and culture. This will come in handy when you tailor your message to align with their needs and values.
2. Identify the right contact
Look for the appropriate decision-maker, such as a hiring manager, department head, or someone in HR.
3. Set your goal
Know what you're asking for—whether it’s an informational interview, sending your resume, or discussing future opportunities.
4. Craft a clear message
What do you say during a cold call? Whether calling or emailing, be concise and to the point. Below you'll find more specific examples, but here's a simple framework to follow as a starting point:
- Introduce yourself: Hi, my name is Sarah James. I’m calling because I’ve been following your company’s work in digital marketing, and I wanted to inquire about potential opportunities.
- Mention something specific about the company: I’ve seen the recent success of your social media campaigns, and I think my five years of experience in digital strategy could add value to your team.
- Explain your value: In my previous role, I managed campaigns that increased engagement by 40%, and I’d love to bring similar results to your company.
- Ask for next steps: Is there someone I can speak with regarding future opportunities, or can I send you my resume?
- Polite closing: Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you.
Cold call script: Examples of what to say via phone
Decided to actually call? Here are some sample cold call scripts you can adapt for your own job search:
Example #1: For experienced job seekers
Hello, my name is John Doe, and I’m reaching out because I’ve been following your company’s growth in software development. With my seven years of experience in full-stack development, I believe I could contribute to your team. Could I speak with someone about upcoming roles?
Example #2: For career changers
Hi, I’m Jane Smith, and I’m looking to transition into product management after a decade in marketing. I’ve admired your company’s focus on innovation, and I believe my skills in strategic planning could bring value. Is there someone I could speak with about any opportunities?Example #3: For recent graduates
Hello, my name is Alex Brown, and I recently graduated with a degree in graphic design. I’ve been following your company’s work and was wondering if there are any entry-level roles or internships available where I could contribute my skills.
Cold call scripts: Examples of what to write
An email or even a LinkedIn message often works best as cold calls may reach people off guard. “Email allows you to share your resume or, at the very least, gives the recipient a chance to review your online profile,” Barrow says.
Sample cold email scripts
If you prefer to reach out via email, here are some sample cold email scripts you can use:
Example #1: For experienced job seekers
Subject Line: Software Engineer Interested in Opportunities at [Company Name]
Email Body: Dear [Contact Name],
My name is John Doe, and I’ve been following your company’s work in software development. With seven years of experience in full-stack development, I’m confident that my skills in building scalable web applications could bring value to your team.
I’ve attached my resume for your consideration and would love the opportunity to speak with you about any upcoming opportunities. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to your response.
Best regards,
John Doe
Example #2: For career changers
Subject Line: Exploring Product Management Roles at [Company Name]
Email Body: Dear [Contact Name],
My name is Jane Smith, and I’m excited to apply for a potential open product management role at [Company Name]. After 10 years in marketing, I’m transitioning into product management and believe my expertise in market research and strategic planning can bring valuable insights to your team. I’ve closely followed your company’s innovative product offerings and am confident that my skills would align well with your current needs.
I’d love the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute. Could we schedule a time to chat, or may I send over my resume for further consideration?
Best regards,
Jane Smith
Example #3: For recent graduates
Subject Line: Recent Graphic Design Graduate Interested in Opportunities
Email Body: Dear [Contact Name],
My name is Alex Brown, and I recently graduated with a degree in graphic design. I’ve been following your company’s creative projects, and I’m reaching out to see if there are any entry-level roles or internships where I could contribute my design skills.
I’d love the opportunity to send my portfolio and resume for your consideration. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you.
Best regards,
Alex Brown
Key takeaways
When cold calling or emailing, maintaining professionalism and respect is key. Here are some final tips to ensure a positive experience:
- Keep it brief: Whether it’s a call or an email, respect the recipient’s time by being concise and to the point.
- Tailor your message: Personalize your outreach by researching the company and addressing the specific person you’re contacting.
- Follow up professionally: Always send a follow-up thank-you message after a meeting or valuable connection to reinforce your appreciation and leave a lasting impression.
By following these tips, you’ll leave a positive impression and increase your chances of turning cold outreach into meaningful opportunities.