Tips on Drafting Speculative Letters

Taking a speculative approach when job seeking, if done well, can lead to a successful outcome. It may mean you are considered for a job not yet advertised or offered an interview for a future vacancy.

There are a number of factors at play that need to considered if you wish to use this approach. The below points will help you create an effective speculative cover letter.

Shortlist Employers

• Shortlist organisations that are of interest to you.
• Investigate the type of jobs they offer.
• Do research on these companies – look at their company website, their social media channels, LinkedIn etc.
• Find news articles about them and related industry material.
• Understand how they operate and their work ethos.

Contact the Decision Maker

• Find the best person to contact - ideally a decision maker.
• Contact the company to get the persons details.
• Address your letter to this person.
• End off with an invite to meet at their convenience and / or a follow up phone call.

Good Formatting

• Use a formal letter layout.
• Choose a professional font style like Arial and stick to one A4 page.
• Use 'Dear...' and end with 'Yours faithfully,'
• Use two or three paragraphs of text.
• Focus on their needs, not yours.
• Sign the letter with your name typed below your signature. Include your mobile telephone number and email address.

Tailor your Application

• Each speculative letter should be tailored to the company or particular role that interests you.
• Aim to demonstrate how your experience and achievements are relevant and of benefit to the company.
• Match the tone of the letter to the organisation.

Follow up

• Follow up with a phone call.
• If offered a chance to meet, approach this as you would a job interview.
• Be professional and thank them for their time.

Always proofread thoroughly before sending out your speculative letter and CV. Keep a copy of the letter should you be fortunate to be called for an interview.

Other Tips

For more helpful information to support your job search, see our Job Seeking Tips.