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Connecting by Phone
Connecting by Phone
A phone call is the fastest way to get a direct answer and see if a business is open to hosting a student.
By picking up the phone, you are already going further than most students who just click "send" on an email. A call gives you the immediate opportunity to communicate your enthusiasm, manners, and personality in a way that text cannot. It shows confidence and allows you to speak with a manager directly, proving that you have the communication skills and initiative needed to succeed in their workplace.
How to Connect By Phone
How to Connect By Phone
1. Get Ready
1. Get Ready
Have a pen and paper ready to take notes. Keep your calendar or schedule open in case they ask exactly when you can start.
2. When to Call
2. When to Call
Avoid busy times. For offices, don't call during the lunch hour (12:00–2:00 PM). For restaurants, avoid the lunch and dinner rush. Mid-morning or mid-afternoon is usually best.
3. Starting the Call
3. Starting the Call
The person who answers the phone might not be the supervisor. Ask to speak to the manager or owner directly.
What to say: "Hi, I’m [Name] from Earl Haig. Could I speak to the manager briefly about a school Co-op placement?"
4. What to Say to the Manager
4. What to Say to the Manager
Once the manager is on the line, tell them who you are and why you're calling.
What to say: "Hi [Manager's Name], I’m a student at Earl Haig and I’m looking for a Co-op spot for next semester. I’m a big fan of your business and I’m a very hard worker. I’m looking to help out with daily tasks while I learn more about the field."
5. Remember to Emphasize (No cost/No risk)
5. Remember to Emphasize (No cost/No risk)
Just like in person, you want to make sure they know there is no cost or liability for them.
What to say: "I also wanted to mention that the TDSB covers all my WSIB insurance, so there is no cost to you and the school board handles the liability."
6. Conclude the Conversation
6. Conclude the Conversation
If they seem interested, the goal is to get your resume to them or set up a time to meet.
What to say: "Would you be open to me sending over my resume or dropping by to introduce myself? If you have an email address, I can send you the details and follow up in a couple of days."
Your Key "Selling Points" (Keep these in your head!!!)
Your Key "Selling Points" (Keep these in your head!!!)
Your Key "Selling Points" (Keep these in your head!)
Your Key "Selling Points" (Keep these in your head!)
When you are communicating with a potential placement, make sure you mention these three things. They are the "hooks" that get you the spot:
"No Cost to You": Remind them that the TDSB covers WSIB insurance and that this is an unpaid learning position. It's a "free" extra set of hands.
"I am Passionate": Employers don't want a student who just sits in a chair. Tell them why you like their specific business.
"I am a Hard Worker": Tell them you are there to work, not just watch. Mention you are happy to do the "busy work" (filing, cleaning, organizing) to prove your value.
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