Now is the best time to change jobs or (re)enter the job market.
Unemployment is at its lowest point in over 40 years, which might seem counterintuitive for job hunting. But full employment means that everyone who wants to work is employed. Here in Massachusetts, the numbers are striking: For every ten job openings, there are only six people available to fill them. So the ratio works in your favor. Attitudes about jobs have also changed. Those who are working are no longer settling for low pay, inconsiderate supervisors, or lack of advancement. In short, it is a buyers’ market for those who want to start or further their careers, earn more income, and derive more satisfaction from work.
So, how can we proceed beyond the “want ads” and job postings? That is where informational interviews are important, and something called the broadcast letter might be compelling.
Think of the broadcast letter as similar to those direct mailings that often land in your mailbox: It is addressed to you (“Dear James,”), specific about the benefits of what’s being offered (“the end of the enrollment period is approaching and you should know about our program and how we are different”), and asks you to take action (“call today”).
Say you are interested in working for a particular company or person in a company. Don’t be concerned if there is a job opening or not—the likelihood is that many companies are always looking for good employees. Or perhaps there are multiple organizations that you would like to target.
Your broadcast letter would then state: I am interested in working for you/your company because I can bring my specific experience (“I have five years of experience as a major gifts officer”) and I can provide specific benefits (“during which time I increased fundraising/sales/whatever”). Mention any relevant educational degrees, too. And make sure you put in a call to action (“I will call you on Monday” or “I would welcome the opportunity to speak”)—and then stick to your plan.
You don’t need to explain any gaps in your work history, career path, or other non-relevant information that sometimes ends up on a resume. Instead, draw a direct line between what you can offer a company and why that company should talk to you about a job. That said, it’s worth explaining if you’ve recently moved to the area—or are planning to move to the Berkshires in the next six months.
Keep it to two paragraphs in the body of an email or write a one-page letter and send it as an attachment or, maybe even better, through the mail! If you know someone who knows a person in a company you are targeting, mention that at the outset.
Make a list of people/companies you’d like to work for, get their emails or mailing addresses, and start drafting your own letter, using the real example below.
Dear Mr. Abruzzo,
I am writing because I am interested in working for [name of company]. I have seven years of increasing responsibility in my current position as a customer service representative, which would be relevant and helpful to your company. Over the last seven years, I have been promoted twice, and the scope of my responsibilities has expanded. In addition to being a good communicator on the phone and in person, I am an able writer.
I received a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature from Springfield College and continue my education with online courses in business and social media.
I have admired your approach to business and what employees say on social media about you and the company, and I use your products—I am a customer.
I will call your office next week to introduce myself and explain why I believe I could add value to your organization.
Thank you,
[name]
As with all direct mail pieces, it’s a numbers game. The number of employers in the Berkshires is limited, but keep in mind many positions are remote (or at least hybrid). Aim to send 50 or more of these broadcast letters and expect a small return. Remember to follow up with a phone call or an email. There’s nothing wrong with gentle prodding—trust me, YOU are in more demand than you realize.
If you decide to try this approach, please post a comment below or write me at theberkshireedge@gmail.com. I’d like to know how it goes.
