Unsolicited application
Apply before the job is posted. Use a simple structure and a short email that gets read.
How to succeed with unsolicited applications
You often face less competition, and the company saves on expensive recruitment costs.
Target 20-40 companies
Create a list and work with multiple contacts at once.
Call with a script
You'll feel calmer – and get answers you can use in your email.
Send a short email
They often only see the subject line and first few lines.
What is an unsolicited application?
An unsolicited application is your chance to show initiative and create your own opportunities.
01 What does "unsolicited application" mean?
An unsolicited application is reaching out to a company without them having posted a job opening. You take the initiative and present yourself to the employer.
It's your chance to show what you can offer – and often you're the only candidate in the running.
02 Why do unsolicited applications work?
Companies spend a lot on recruitment. When you reach out first, you save them both time and money. They appreciate that.
You also show initiative and engagement – two things employers value highly.
03 Should I send a CV or a full application?
Some companies want a full application. Others only want your CV and a short email.
Tip: Always ask how they prefer to receive your inquiry when you call.
04 What should I write in the subject line?
Make it easy to understand in 2 seconds – and spark curiosity. A question often works better than "unsolicited application".
- Example: "May I briefly present how I can help you?"
- Example: "Do you need help with [area] in 2026?"
Call the company first
The most important advice: Call BEFORE you send your application. 47% of employers say email directly to the hiring manager is the best method.
01 How do I make the first call?
Start with a clear purpose: do you want to hear about opportunities, send a CV, or start a dialogue?
- Find the manager in the department you want to work in (not HR or the main number if possible).
- Open briefly: "Hi, my name is [name]. Do you have 2 minutes – or would tomorrow be better?"
- Explain why you're calling: "I'd like to discuss how I can contribute to your team."
- Ask 1-2 open questions: "What skills will be important for you going forward?"
- Ask how they'd like to receive your inquiry (CV, email, LinkedIn link).
02 Which questions give you the best answers?
- "What's typically important when you hire?"
- "Do you have exciting projects coming up?"
- "Do you already know if you'll need more staff?"
- "What would be most relevant for me to send you?"
Use their answers directly in your subject line and opening lines.
03 What do I do if they say no?
A no right now often means "not a need right now". End positively and get a next step.
- "May I send my CV so you can reach out if a need arises?"
- "Do you know anyone in your network I could contact?"
- "May I follow up again in a few months?"
Find companies to contact
Start with a list of 20-40 companies, so you don't lose motivation after the first rejections.
Find old job postings
Search job archives for the company's name. Even if the posting has expired, it shows what they typically look for – and you can use that in your application.
Use LinkedIn and company databases
Find contact persons on LinkedIn and check the company's finances online. A growing company is often more open to new employees.
Track and follow up
Create a spreadsheet with all companies. Use color codes: Green = contacted, Yellow = awaiting reply, Red = not interested right now.
How to structure your application
You can use the same structure every time – even for unsolicited applications.
01 How do I structure my application?
Keep it to one page and make it easy to skim. Use this standard structure:
- Headline showing what you can offer (a question works well).
- Motivation: why this company specifically?
- Professional match: 2-3 concrete things you can solve.
- Personal skills: how you work and collaborate.
- Closing: take responsibility for the next step ("I'll call again...").
02 How do I write about motivation without a job posting?
Show motivation to use your skills at that specific company. Describe which tasks you're excited about – and why.
Tip: Did you call first? Mention the conversation early: "After speaking with..."
03 What if I don't know their needs?
You have the advantage because they haven't asked for anything. Focus on your core skills and make clear what value you can create.
Remember: The headline should show what they get – not what you're looking for.
04 Can I use AI to write my application?
Yes! Our AI-powered application tool can help you write an unsolicited application in minutes.
Use AI for a strong first draft – and customize with your own words so it sounds like you.
Your subject line determines if the email gets opened
Avoid words like "unsolicited" and "job application" — use a question that sparks curiosity.
Subject lines that get ignored
"Unsolicited application"
"Job application"
These sound generic and don't give a reason to open the email.
Subject lines that open doors
"May I briefly present how I can help you?"
"Do you need help with [area]?"
A question is easy to understand and invites dialogue.
6 tips for your email
Keep it short. Many only see the subject line and first few lines.
Write what they get
Start with what you can contribute – not what you're looking for. "I'd like to discuss how I can help you."
Use bullet points
List 2-3 things you can help with. Bullet points are easier to skim and catch the eye.
Be specific
Skip "flexible and positive". Write instead: "I have experience with X and Y." They'll understand what you can do.
Share the practical details
Are you looking for full-time, part-time, or internship? State it clearly. "I can start immediately."
Take ownership of the next step
Write: "I'll call you in a few days." This shows you take initiative and follow through.
Give consent for CV storage
Write: "My CV may be stored for up to 6 months." This makes it easier for them to contact you later.
Follow up and keep going
If you don't get a response the first time, it often just means they're busy.
Wait 1-2 weeks before following up. Give them time to read your inquiry. Then call or send a short email.
Try a different channel. No reply to your email? Call or reach out on LinkedIn. Many managers check LinkedIn more often than their inbox.
Get something from a no. Ask: "Do you know anyone in your network I could contact?" Or: "May I send my CV so you can reach out later?"
What makes them say yes
Motivation makes a big difference. Keep it concrete and easy to understand.
Show clear motivation. Write why you want to use your skills at their company – not just that you're "looking for new challenges".
Give concrete examples. Demonstrate with 1-2 examples from work, school, or projects. This makes your application credible.
Start with purpose. Skip "I found you on...". Go straight to why and what you can offer them.
Make it easy to respond. End with your name, phone number, and when you'll follow up. So they know what the next step is.
They got the job
Real people. Real results. See what they say.
"Thanks for the help with my CV and application. TDC contacted me about a personal interview next week."
"THANK YOU SO MUCH for the fantastic work. Absolutely great cover letter!"
"The application sounds great. I'm excited to send it!"