Unsolicited application

An unsolicited application is an effective way to stand out and capture employers' attention. Here you'll find tips on how to identify employers, as well as examples and templates for your application – whether you want to broaden your opportunities or are applying for your first job.

This page contains the following

Checklist: How to write a strong unsolicited application
All the basics about unsolicited applications
How do I write a strong unsolicited application?
Example of an unsolicited application
How do I find relevant companies to apply to unsolicited?
What should I do once I've identified the companies?

Checklist: How to write a strong unsolicited application

  • Be clear about why you are contacting the company.
  • Show how your skills can create value – even without a vacancy.
  • Tailor your application to the company's mission, values and projects.
  • Finish with a clear call to dialogue and make sure to follow up yourself.

All the basics about unsolicited applications

Here you'll find answers to the most common questions about unsolicited applications – what they are, why they matter, and how to structure them so they capture the employer's interest.

An unsolicited application resembles a traditional job application, but there are some differences you should be aware of. It is always important to make your application personal and tailor it to the company – even when applying unsolicited. For example, explain clearly and concretely why you want to work for them and how you can contribute to their success. Remember to keep your application short and precise so the employer can quickly get an overview of your qualifications and experience.

An unsolicited application is your opportunity to introduce yourself to a company and showcase what you can offer as an employee – without being limited by specific job requirements in a vacancy. By including some key elements in your unsolicited application, you can make it both effective and engaging for the employer.

First and foremost, your application should include an introduction of yourself, where you briefly describe who you are, what you can offer, and why you want to work at the company in question. You should then write about your education and professional experience, highlighting the professional and personal skills you possess that make you suitable for a potential role in the company.

It is also important to include a conclusion where you summarise your strengths and once again explain why you want to work for the company. It may also be a good idea to suggest a meeting where you can learn more about the company and your potential opportunities for employment. Emphasise that you understand the company may not have a vacancy for you right now, but that you are also interested in the longer term.

Finally, ensure your application has a clear, easy-to-follow structure, and proofread it carefully for spelling mistakes, the wrong recipient, and so on before you send it.

How do I write a strong unsolicited application?

Below you can see which elements are typically included in an unsolicited application.

Write a brief introduction where you present yourself and explain why you are contacting the company, and where you heard about them.
Briefly describe your educational background and previous work experience by explaining how it can benefit the company. Attach your CV separately.
Describe your strengths and skills, and how they can support the company – for example, by mentioning specific projects or tasks where you achieved results using your skills. Be as concrete as possible in your descriptions.
Explain why you want to work for the company, and how your knowledge of their mission, values, and products or services is relevant to your career ambitions and interests.
End your application with a summary of what you can offer and how you can help the company achieve its goals. Conclude with an invitation to meet and offer to follow up with the company within a week.

Example of an unsolicited application

Dear [company name],

I am writing to apply for the opportunity to work with you as a [position]. I first became aware of your company through [name of source], and after reviewing your products and services, I am impressed by your commitment and potential within the field.

I hold a degree in [education] and have [number] years of experience within [industry/field]. My expertise lies in [skills and strengths], and I have previously succeeded in [example of a task or project where you demonstrated your skills]. I am passionate about [a topic related to the position] and believe that my background and abilities can make a valuable contribution to your team.

I am particularly drawn to your company's commitment to [mission], as I see it as an important part of creating a sustainable future. I am also impressed by your recent project [project name], which demonstrates your innovative approach to [industry].

I greatly appreciate you taking the time to read my application. I would very much like to meet with you to discuss how I can contribute to your company – even if there may not be a vacancy at the moment. I will therefore follow up with you within the next week, but please feel free to get back to me before then if it suits you better.

Best regards,

[Your name]

Remember that the above template is only a guideline, and you should always make sure to adapt it to your own style and wording.

How do I find relevant companies to apply to unsolicited?

Finding potential employers can be a challenge because you do not have a specific job advert to relate to. Here are some tips to help you identify companies that might be interested in an unsolicited application.

Use our search function to look for companies within your geographical area and chosen category or field.
Use your personal network to ask for introductions to companies that might need your skills.
Browse local news outlets to look for companies that are mentioned positively or that are experiencing growth.

What should I do once I've identified the companies?

Once you have identified some companies you would like to send your unsolicited application to, it is important to navigate the process in a professional way. Here are some steps you can take to improve your chances of success.

Research the company and its needs to identify how your skills and experience can help them.
Find the right person to send your application to. This is typically the HR department or the manager of a relevant department that matches your job interests and professional experience. You might have a contact through your network, or you can call their reception to ask who you should address your unsolicited application to.
Adapt your unsolicited application to the company and the type of job you are seeking. It makes a big difference to include specific examples of how your skills and experience can directly contribute to the company's success.
Once you have sent your application, follow up with an email or a phone call to confirm that they have received it and to show your interest in an interview or meeting. If you state in your application when you intend to follow up, it is a good idea to do so.

By following these steps and maintaining a professional approach, you can increase your chances of securing an interview and perhaps even a job offer from a company you would like to work for. You may also want to consider creating an online CV so your skills are visible to employers and recruitment specialists when they are looking for new employees.

Create a CV – and get found
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