Following up resume with call, companies won't accept followups?

Question

So the common notion is to always follow up sent resumes with a phone call to the employer a week or so later. But I am finding that the front lines of the employers aren't willing to forward me to their hiring staff, saying the company policy is not to allow phone followups. Since I don't have any "ins" at these companies (many of which are the big monolithic corporations), how can I get through to the hiring managers? Followup e-mails would seem to be useless since that is the same avenue used for sending resumes.

Answer 1

First of all, if you can possibly go there personally to drop off your resume, it looks much better for you. Not all companies accept follow-ups, I know mine doesn't and the calls do stop with me. Hiring staff, managers, executives, etc. are too busy to deal with those who want in their offices, therefore just leave a corgial "thank you" with their receptionist and hopefully they'll pass it along. If not, then there isn't much you can do.

As for emailing a thank you, in this day and age it's ok in business to do this, but again, it's always best to say your thank you's in person. Also, most emails go through the receptionist anyway, so you trying to go around this person is useless as she'll get the email. Don't go "through" or "around" anyone, just go do it yourself in person. You'll look better for it.

Answer 2

I agree you must use the interviewers name in a follow up. Your getting hung up with what we call a gate keeper. Here's a little trick most major companies use a phone number like***-***-1000, try 1010 and when the wrong person answers say oh I wanted (interviewers name) could you transfer me. Now if the person that interviewed you really doesnt want phone calls you may be hurting your chances, Its up to you.

Answer 3

If you have a name of the person accepting the resume you can ask for him/her. If you have an e-mail address you can use that, though that is not as good.

Answer 4

I would use whatever schedule they are asking you to use. Blatantly disregarding the companies hiring practices is not an impressive move. If are not receiving calls it is time to revamp your resume and cover letter, not harass people.

Answer 5

First off - do you have any contact names? If so try to call identifying who you want to talk to by name.

If not, send a follow-up letter. Also, try an email.

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