Speculative Application: How to Access the Hidden Job Market
Learn how to find the right company, who to contact, and what an effective speculative application contains to unlock doors to hidden job opportunities.
The hidden job market is full of opportunities that are never advertised. A well-written speculative application can be the key to unlocking these jobs. But how do you create an application that truly captures attention?
In this guide, we'll cover everything from finding the right company to who to contact, what your email should include, and how to follow up without being pushy. It's about being strategic, professional, and above all – authentic.
Find the right company to apply to
Start by identifying companies that align with your values, skills, and career goals. Think outside the box – smaller companies or startups often have more flexibility to create new roles. Use industry publications, LinkedIn, and events to find potential employers.
Create a list of 10-15 companies where you would truly thrive. Focus on quality over quantity – it's better to spend time on a few well-selected applications than to send out many generic ones.
Who should you contact and how?
The right contact person makes all the difference. Avoid generic info@ addresses. Instead, look for hiring managers, department heads, or even the CEO of smaller companies. LinkedIn is an excellent tool for finding the right person.
If you have mutual connections, ask for a warm introduction. Lacking connections? A personal email directly to the decision-maker can be just as effective.
How to write a compelling email
Your first email should be short, personal, and spark curiosity. Here are the key points:
The subject line is crucial – it should be clear and enticing. E.g., 'Experienced UX designer passionate about your products'.
Start with why this particular company (show you've done your research)
Briefly describe your unique skills and what you can contribute
End with an open question or suggestion for a meeting
Keep the email under 200 words – readability is important
Timing and follow-up
Send your email on a Tuesday or Wednesday morning for the best chance of being read. Avoid Mondays when inboxes are full and Fridays when focus is often on wrapping up the week.
No response after a week? Send a short and friendly reminder. Still no reply after two weeks? It might be time to move on. Remember not to take the lack of response personally – sometimes it's simply about timing.
Be yourself and don't give up
The best speculative applications come from genuine curiosity and enthusiasm. Don't be afraid to show your personality – that's exactly what can make you stand out.
Every 'no' or silence brings you closer to a 'yes'. Imagine each application as a step in your career journey. You never know what unexpected meeting or door might open – so keep going with curiosity and persistence!