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Tips for a successful speculative application

With an unsolicited application, you can reach companies before they even advertise a position. Here you will find our tips to help you prepare your speculative application.

Why a speculative application can be worthwhile
and how to prepare

Unsolicited applications work particularly well when companies are growing, looking for skilled professionals, or open to new talent. They demonstrate not only your interest, but also your proactivity. This can open doors to positions that have never been publicly advertised.
Understand and assess your target company

  • Conduct targeted research: company website, social media, press coverage.

  • Look for signs of growth, new projects, or increasing staffing needs.

Goal: Understand whether and why the company may need your support right now.
Precise positioning

  • Clearly define which area or which problem you can offer a solution for.

  • Formulate a concise personal profile that aligns with your skills and competencies.

Important: The more precise your positioning, the easier it is for the company to recognize your value.

The cover letter: Short, confident, and truly relevant

  • Start with a clear reference to the company (a current project, growth, etc.).

  • Present your key strengths directly and support them with examples.

  • Limit your cover letter to a maximum of three to four short paragraphs. A structural template can be found below.

Tip: Avoid standard phrases such as “I am hereby applying for…”.
The CV: Tailored specifically to the company

  • Adapt your CV to the area you are interested in.

  • Highlight relevant experience that directly supports the target role.

Tip: A tailored CV signals genuine interest and professionalism.

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The right timing
for your speculative application

An unsolicited application is particularly effective when the company may currently be open to new talent. Use the following timeframes as guidance:

  • Ideal timing

    The company is growing, opening new locations, launching new projects, or receiving positive media attention. In such phases, the demand for staff typically increases.

  • Possible timing

    There are no visible changes, but the company is stable. Your application can still be successful if you clearly demonstrate the concrete value you offer.

  • Unfavorable timing

    During hiring freezes, restructuring, or economic difficulties, unsolicited applications are less effective, as few new roles are created.

What you should definitely avoid
in a speculative application

To ensure your unsolicited application is convincing, avoid common mistakes that significantly reduce your chances:

  • Impersonal standard texts
    Avoid generic wording without reference to the company. An unsolicited application thrives on individuality.

  • A CV without relevance
    Do not send a CV that includes everything but highlights nothing. Irrelevant information dilutes your impact.

  • Unclear career focus
    Do not write that you are “open to many areas.” Companies want to clearly understand where you can contribute.

  • Mass mailings
    Sending identical emails to dozens of companies appears unprofessional and is quickly recognized.

  • Repeating the CV in the text
    The cover letter should not restate what is already in the CV. Use the space to explain motivation, added value, and benefits.

The structure
of your cover letter

Structure your unsolicited cover letter clearly, concisely, and convincingly in four sections:
1. Introduction

Why are you approaching this specific company?

Refer to something current or relevant and explain why you find this company particularly interesting.

2. Value

What concrete contribution can you make?

Name a few competencies or experiences that create value. Support them with evidence.

3. Examples

What successes have you achieved?

Mention some examples of achievements, milestones, or success stories that make your added value tangible.

4. Conclusion

Motivation for a personal conversation

Avoid standard phrases in your letter. Encourage the company to engage in a personal discussion with you.

Apply proactively at Hays:
We will Inform you about suitable opportunities

By uploading your CV, you give us the opportunity to review your profile. As soon as we identify a suitable vacancy or an interesting assignment for you, we will contact you directly. This way, you can find out about opportunities without any additional effort, exactly when a chance arises.
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Your central point of contact
for further practical application tips

Our recommendations reliably support you throughout all phases of your application process, from preparation to the interview. Discover concise, practical tips that help you position yourself clearly and professionally. Best of all: you have access anytime and anywhere, whether at the office, on the go, or shortly before an important appointment. This way, you receive exactly the guidance you need, when you need it.