PAST THE GATEKEEPER
January 28th, 2006
How do you get past the gatekeeper to speak to the decision maker who could possibly hire you? It is important that you need to be aware that there are gatekeepers when you “mail” in your resume. similar to the gatekeeper who answers the phone. Let’s start with mailing in your resume. There are certain steps you need to take if you want your prospective employer to open the envelope:
1. Always call in advance and get the name and title of the person who would be your boss
2. Handwrite the envelop to that person vs. typing the envelope (it appears like it’s personal)
3. Write PERSONAL & CONFIDENTIAL on the lower left corner of the envelope
(this is the ONLY type of correspondence a secretary WILL NEVER open!)
You now know your resume is in the hands of your future boss, or an individual one level above that person.
Let’s talk about the gatekeeper on the phone:
1. Call the night before to get the name of the person you want to reach.
2. If there is resistance in giving you the name - ask for the spelling of the name and they assume you have
the name and spell it out for your.
3. Also ask for the “correct” title…they again assume you have a title!
4. Ask the receptionist when it is most convenient for you to reach that party.
5. If the secretary asks “WHAT IS THIS CALL REGARDING” you can honestly say it’s personal!
Your job search IS very personal.
6. If you hit either a receptionist or secretary who will absolutely NOT let your call through - remember they
do eat lunch. Call during the lunch hour…and you will reach someone NEW and hopefully they are more
receptive to your call.
The most common mistake job seekers make is NOT taking the time to identify the person who SHOULD read your resume. You need to get your resume in the hands of individuals who don’t normally get resume. If you send out your resume to Job Boards, Classified Ads or post it on the Internet - you are now one of thousands of resumes that will be received. Take the time to identify your future employer and watch the interviews you will book! Good luck on your job search…..Barb Bruno