Speculative application:
Secure your dream job

Have you heard of something called an “invisible” or “hidden” job market? No? Then you should look into it because it is the job market you are addressing with a speculative application (also called unsolicited application).  

A speculative application can raise a recruitment need in a company or organisation whose HR planning is not yet definite. Even if it you need a bit of hope, a speculative application and ideal preparation gives you enormous opportunities as a specialist to open the door wide to a job interview.  

Which companies are worth sending speculative applications to? Basically all those with positive growth prospects. Publications about new company sites or new project orders are good indicators for this development. Use a speculative application to refer to this information and link it to your own motivation, interests and competencies.  

You will be particularly successful if the company invites speculative applications on its own website. If a company is experiencing economic difficulties, it makes little sense to send a speculative application as they will most likely not be hiring at the moment. This means that smart, diligent research is essential for a successful speculative application and to avoid wasted time and effort.

A speculative application is an application that is not aimed at a specific job offer. So, although there is no vacancy, you can still use your application to refer to a specific position in the company and create a requirements profile matching your competencies.

THE 1X1 OF A SUCCESSFUL SPECULATIVE APPLICATION

In terms of structure and individual components, a speculative application is very similar to a standard application. A speculative application should also include at least a cover letter and your CV. Making contact beforehand can clarify whether your preferred next employer expects letters of recommendation, references or even a motivational letter or cover sheet from you.

Therefore, it is advisable to contact the company before you swing into action and compile your application documents. It will help your contact remember you and draw a connection between you and your speculative application. And you know exactly which documents are required in the application folder or digital application.

The chances of landing your dream job with a speculative application are good—for the following reasons:

• You are not competing with other applicants for an advertised position.

• Apart from self-initiative, you are showing a lot of commitment, ambition and also self-confidence: character traits that can benefit any employer.

• Since you are creating a fictional profile for a hidden position, you need to clearly highlight your skills and abilities. All companies will remember that. In addition, you have the opportunity of potentially defining your future position.

• With a speculative application, you can give free reign to your creativity—in terms of layout and content. Show creativity and stand out from the crowd.

• In all probability, you will be added to the company’s pool of a applicants.

Even if the advantages seem overwhelming at first, you should also consider the disadvantages of a speculative application.

• You are entering unknown territory. You can only assume the kinds of skills required, but you cannot know for sure.

• To find out more details, you need to do preparatory work, do a lot of research —and invest time.

• Some companies are currently not looking for people, so a lack of job advertisements means you have little to go on when it comes to composing your speculative application.

• Likewise, some companies reject speculative applications on principle. This is yet another reason why you should contact someone and ask them for details.

Naturally, align your speculative application to the contact you were previously in touch with by phone or in writing.

Apart from establishing a general interest in speculative applications, also ask about the required documents. Certificates, letters of recommendation or work samples are always valuable and informative documents because they accurately describe your field of activity and assess your accomplishments. For some employers, however, a short application is sufficient.

Don't forget the application photo, which is an important part of your documents. Choose a professional and up-to-date photo that presents you in a positive and competent light. Make sure that the photo matches the industry you are applying for. In some countries and industries, application photos are no longer common, so find out in advance whether a photo is appropriate in your case. If you are unsure, you can also ask directly during a telephone call.

Try to derive as many details and requirements as possible for your speculative application from the information received. Use this as a basis to tailor your documents to your preferred next employer so the company feels it is individually addressed and you can impress with your detailed knowledge. This will boost your chances of being invited to a first interview.

Try answering the following questions for yourself to perfectly tailor your speculative application to the company:

• What values does the company represent? What is the company philosophy?

• In which sector does the company operate? What sets the company apart?

• What products and services are offered? Do they have a USP?

• What current (economic) news is there about the company? Is it expanding into other countries?

• Are there gaps in the company’s skill set? Can you close these with your expertise?

• What qualifications are present in the company? Which department can your job profile be allocated to?

To answer these questions, you should not only use the company website but also career networks such as Xing or LinkedIn. After all, employees and companies are more likely to share information there than on other social media platforms.

Your comprehensive research has provided you with all the information for writing a meaningful cover letter for your speculative application that will attract attention. Often, these data and details help you to gauge even better whether the company really is a good fit for you—and vice versa.

Since there are so many different prerequisites and backgrounds, it is almost impossible to provide a sample for a speculative application. Nevertheless, we want to give you specific tips on how to structure a cover letter for your speculative application that will inspire your contacts.

Introduction to a speculative application: Establish a catchy connection in your opening sentence

After addressing your contact, use the first sentence to make your mark. An unusual introduction will encourage the recipient to read on.

Try this (Example):

Start mentioning your knowledge and professional experience in the introduction, focus on your strengths and point out gaps in competencies and staff coverage. Finding an original word play or metaphor for that will give you every chance of attracting attention with the cover letter of your speculative application.

Do you need rework your application documents? See our Download section for CV templates, information about application photographs and check-lists for successful cover letters!

With a speculative application, it is particularly important to be precise and targeted. A common mistake is not personalizing the application enough: avoid generic cover letters and tailor each document to the company in question. It is equally important not to focus too much on general skills, but to highlight specific knowledge and experience that could be of particular interest to the company. Also avoid including too much information.

Your application should be compact, precise and focused on the essentials. Finally, make sure your documents are error-free and professional - spelling mistakes and an unkempt layout can significantly reduce your chances.