Cold Canvassing

Learn how to approach employers directly for work

A step-by-step guide to help you market yourself to businesses and find a job!

Visiting or calling businesses can improve your chances to find work

Looking for work can involve drawing on a number of resources and networks to maximise your chance of gaining employment.

Cold canvassing is about ‘marketing’ yourself directly to employers, either by visiting their business and talking to a manager, or by calling them up.

Here are some steps you can follow to try cold canvassing:

• Identify businesses and organisations that offer jobs in the area you would like
• Dress appropriately and make sure you are well presented
• Take a cover letter and resume with you
• Ask to speak with the manager or second in charge
• Be prepared to speak briefly about your skills, training, what you would bring to a position 
• Briefly discuss why you would like the opportunity to work in their business
• Follow up with a phone call to refresh the manager of your conversation and reinforce your willingness to work
• Remember to be realistic about your skill set and jobs you apply for

Discover more free tips and resources to help with your job applications:

Selection Criteria Cover Letters Resumes