A direct approach involves personally visiting an organisation to enquire about job vacancies. In order to do this you should make a list of employers that may have positions that would suit you.

The direct approach gives you the opportunity to show potential employers that you are enthusiastic and proactive.

Preparing to approach employers

Before you approach employers you should:

• search the Yellow Pages and industry directories for company listings 
• put the companies in order of priority, according to the one you would most like to work for 
• prepare before visiting the organisation by taking along copies of your resume and written references, in case there is a job available. This means you will be able to apply for the position on the spot. You may even be asked in for an interview while you are there.

First contact

There are several things to remember when initially approaching the organisation:

• ask to speak with the manager or a person with the authority to hire rather than just leaving your resume
• ensure you appear interested in the company and be polite and courteous. Even if there is not a position currently available, if they see that you are interested they may think of you when a position does arise.

Additional resources

The Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations have created a useful worksheet (PDF* 151KB) with tips and hints to directly approaching employers.

Information interviews

Information Interviewing (PDF 36KB) involve gaining information from potential employers about the job and any expected vacancies. Upon interviewing you may discover that there is not a job currently available at that particular organisation. However, the person could refer you to someone else or keep your name on file.

The task allows you to develop interview skills, knowledge about your industry, what would be expected of you in the position and the kinds of jobs available with your experience. Conducting an information interview involves:

• arranging to meet with the contact at a time which is appropriate for the employer, when they are not busy and have the time to answer your questions properly
• asking open-ended questions during the interview and making sure you leave the door open for further contact. For example, you could offer to leave your name and telephone number in case the person hears about any job vacancies. It is also valuable to ask if you can use their name when making contact with the employers they suggest. This will help give you credibility with the next employer you contact.

*This file is in Portable Document Format (PDF) which requires the use of Adobe Acrobat Reader. A free copy of Acrobat Reader may be obtained from Adobe. Users who are unable to access information in PDF should contact the Careers & Employment to obtain this information in an alternative format.