The more dialogues you create with companies, the greater the likelihood that you'll land your next job faster. Company contact is important – both when you apply unsolicited and for posted positions.
Why company contact works
When you apply unsolicited, you can choose the companies you find interesting. You make contact in a good way – and if an opportunity arises, you're the one they remember to contact.
When there's a posted position, company contact is about calling and asking clarifying questions. This shows initiative and makes a positive impression on the employer.
Active contact with companies is often what makes the difference in a job search – in both the private and public sector.
Contact a person – not the company in general
Here's a crucial point: Company contact is about contacting a person, not the company in general.
- Not the main number
- Not the info@ email
- Yes to a contact person with responsibility and a management function
Go directly to the right person. It works best if you call – but you can also use email and LinkedIn as entry points.
When you call, you create a relationship and leave a stronger personal impression. The goal is to get a phone conversation that can lead to a personal meeting.
Who should you contact?
Many people are unsure about who to contact. Here's a good rule of thumb:
| Company size | Who should you contact? |
|---|---|
| Small company | High in the hierarchy (director, owner) |
| Large company | Department manager, project leader |
Start high and get sent down – it's better than starting at reception and fighting your way up.
Avoid HR as a starting point
Not because HR isn't relevant – but because they rarely know the most about specific tasks and future needs. The department manager does.
HR can be good if you want to know more about how the company recruits or what they prioritize.
The 3 contact methods
1. Phone
Provides quick response and personal contact. This is where you often get the best results – but it requires preparation. Plan how you'll present yourself and what you'll ask about.
2. Email
Here you can formulate your message in peace. But be aware that many emails never get answered. Use email as a start, and follow up with a call.
3. LinkedIn
More personal and less formal than email. You stand out and show that you have a networking mindset. It can provide a good opening for dialogue.
There's no single right contact method. It's about what works for you – and trying something new.
Be patient
Be prepared that it takes time. You might be unlucky and catch them at a bad time – they could be on vacation, in a meeting, or busy.
Don't give up even if you didn't get through the first or second time. If phone doesn't work, try email. Or a LinkedIn connection request.
The most important thing is that you don't stop – but adjust your strategy along the way.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Contacting info@: It's rarely read by decision-makers
- Starting with HR: Start higher up
- Giving up after one try: Keep trying
- Pointing out lack of response: Start fresh with a positive tone
Practical tips
- Find a manager on LinkedIn or the company's website
- Prepare thoroughly before you call
- Use phone as your primary method – it gives the best results
- Follow up if you don't get a response
- Keep a positive tone – even when rejected
Try it yourself
- Choose 3 companies from your company list
- Find a manager or department head in each company
- Decide which contact method you'll use
- Make contact this week
Frequently asked questions
What if I can't find a contact person?
Use LinkedIn to search for job titles within the company. You can also call the main office and ask who is responsible for [department].
Isn't it inappropriate to contact managers directly?
No. Most managers appreciate initiative. And if they don't have time, they'll direct you to the right person.
Next step
Now you understand the basic principles of company contact. The next step is to prepare your personal presentation – so you know exactly what to say when you make contact.