Speculative Approaches

What are speculative applications?
Many companies hire through speculative applications instead of posting job openings. If you have a particular company in mind, don’t hesitate to reach out and ask about possible job opportunities.
Speculative applications work best when you know what you’re talking about and truly care about the role. Do some research on potential employers and what roles might fit you before you make contact. 

Where do I start?
Start by looking at job profiles to find roles that catch your interest:  Check out sites like Prospects, Targetjobs, and the National Careers Service. You can also read case studies from alumni in various industries.  
Keep your expectations realistic! Start by researching relevant employers in your local area or in areas that are easy to commute to, and pay attention to details such as location, company size, and areas of interest. Remember to manage your expectations!
Attend networking events, and remember to check the employability newsletter and Careersconnect for upcoming employer events.

How do I tailor my approach?
Familiarise yourself with a company's background, including current and past projects, using resources like Career Connect, LinkedIn, or university library databases such as Business Source Premier's Company Profiles, Yell.com, or local council websites. Consider your goals: Are you pursuing a permanent role or an internship? Prepare to present yourself as a compelling candidate who aligns well with their needs.
Remember to tailor your approach to each company.
Your initial message should clearly specify the role you are interested in and your reasons for choosing that company specifically. Reference relevant projects, objectives, and values. Show genuine interest and highlight your relevant skills and experiences!
Concentrate on what you can contribute to the company rather than what they can do for you. Try to avoid giving the impression you just want a job.

What should I say?
When you make contact, don’t just ask about job openings. Request information and advice to demonstrate your genuine interest and desire to learn more. Here are some suggestions...
Ask for insights about the industry and why you are interested in a specific role 
Ask if  they have capacity for you to potentially shadow someone or find out about short-term experiences.   

To sum up!
Speculative applications should be informed, convincing, and tailored to particular positions. Not every attempt will lead to success, but being persistent can help you find jobs, gain experience, or shadow someone in the field. 
Remember even if an employer can't offer you a position, they might connect you with someone who can help. An unsuccessful application is still a chance to learn. Request feedback to improve your future speculative approaches!