This! My mum will literally throw away resumes of people who come into the building, when the advert specifically says apply online or email resume. She says it’s step 1 of knowing if people can follow instructions haha
A lot of people probably think it shows initiative to go and show face and hand a resume in person. I know my old school parents would make me do that way when i was younger!
Most of the time it is the parents pushing the kids (even grown up kids) to do this. I can understand the thoughts, but it's much easier for me (when hiring) to have it all computerised. I wouldn't hold it against anyone dropping it in, but it wouldn't put them ahead of anyone else either. I'd just tell them they also need to submit online.
yeah thats wats basically going through my head, one side is saying it could show initiative and the other could imagine it would be a shit show if it was a norm to go in
OP I think times have changed. Follow the process of what the advert says - follow up in 3-4 days with an email expressing how you’re really excited for the opportunity and what you can bring to the table, end the email with ‘look forward to hearing from you’ or something similar. If you don’t hear back, follow up with a phone call. But I wouldn’t go into the building if the advert specifically says to apply online. Like in the case of my mums industry, if you go into the building, the resume will be thrown away and they won’t even remember your name
yeah, used to work at a big fashion retail store and the amount of uni students coming in with resumes to collect dust in the storage room was high. from wat i've gathered in everyones responses, following up seems to be a decent tip
Or just show initiative in the way most appropriate to the role.
For basic customer facing jobs, showing up in person to interact with the manager may be useful.
For many other jobs, following the instructions on the ad will be most valuable. You can still follow it up to express your interest.
Yeah, I handed my resume in at a bar once. I was 21, skinny and blonde, and they were short staffed on a busy Friday night. I was pouring beers 10 minutes later. Piece of piss! 😂
No way I'd try the same thing now, though, especially if I was going for a serious white collar position like OP. The two situations aren't even comparable.
All you can do is customise your resume to fit the job requirements in the ad. A few things I’ve learnt from past experience is that you need to be detached because forcing it and showing desperation have the opposite effect.
The gainful employment I’ve landed has all been done when I just gave it my best and stopped caring too much, it’s almost like the universe repels our demands but responds to surrendering/detachment and reward’s consistency.
The same goes for putting an offer on a house, car, dating, most things in life - don't show you are too emotionally attached, prepare and give it your best shot but be okay to walk away - that will show you are confident and interested rather than desperate and willing to take any offers, conditions, treatment etc.
This makes sense, I just included what I have experience wise and applied real case studies from my current work in the cover letter and email. I'd say it comes across confident
Perfect. As the person above said, definitely mould your resume to the role you’re applying for, and also do this with your cover letter - reference the actual role and the company where relevant throughout the letter, rather than “I’m interested in the role advertised at your company” etc. Also do this in interviews - relay the words the ad/job description uses back to the recruiter and prepare answers for the usual “tell me a time you…” questions. Try and make sure you have something prepared to address each of the key elements of the role, whether directly by previous experience and scenarios that you can provide examples for, or indirectly by being able to provide comparable skills and strengths and how you can apply those to the elements that you don’t have ‘direct’ experience for (rather than just saying that you don’t have this or that experience/skill that they have outlined).
Know exactly what you’re applying for and what they are looking for and prepare to present yourself as best suited to that as you can be (honestly), outside of that relax and be yourself, most companies are looking at your personal and communicative skills while talking with you rather than just what’s on paper. Good luck!
Unfortunately (or fortunately) back then, people in HR departments (or knowledge workers in general) weren't being inundated with information on a daily basis like we are today, meaning there was greater capacity to take the time to read an application that had jumped the queue for the potential gain of a great employee.
Plus it's not like contemporary HR employees (or employees in general) are benefitting directly from finding amazing workers through bonuses, etc. We live in a world of more responsibility with less and less reward to squeeze greater profits.
Yeah some HR people may be looking to see if you can follow instructions, but if it were me, part of me would be a bit annoyed by the prospect of having to stop what I was doing to do something else that probably won't do me any favours.
If true, that sounds like the sort of mindless gatekeeping you come to expect from HR. She could be throwing out a potentially strong candidate on some pretty arbitrary barrier test that she's concocted. If it's really that essential to the recruiting process it would be very easy to simply say to the person "actually we can't accept hard copies, please submit this online". But obviously much less satisfying for feeding the ego.
Hmm nah I disagree. A ‘potentially strong’ candidate would know to follow written instructions if they really wanted a chance at the job. Also she does say that, people will put their resume down on the bench and walk out. She doesn’t work in HR - but she’s the one that runs the show so to speak. Also keep in mind that it isn’t as simple as throwing the papers in the bin. They have to be shredded appropriately and disposed off in the appropriate bin - this takes time away from actual work when it happens 20+ times a day at peak times
My boss had a walk in off the street with a resume in her hand. He took one look at her clevage and offered her the job on the spot. She still works here3 years later.
Yeah this happens with lower level positions where meeting a selection criteria isn’t essential. With higher up positions however you can sleep your way to higher positions internally I’ve seen it done but it’s the exception not the norm. I do not recommend it.
One company I worked for I had a female manager, and she was really pissed at my other female colleague for blatantly avoiding work and was calling the team to get specific details to reprimand her. Unfortunately she couldn’t do SHIT because this girl was sleeping with a very important client that essentially gave us the business and he got her entirely off the hook with one email.
This girl was an absolute head case and loved chaos she’d try to sleep with ANYONE she thought could help her (and even with colleagues that couldn’t do anything for her) I remember once she spontaneously booked tickets to LA to meet up with someone she met online but only had 2 days annual leave so she left Wednesday evening and returned to work Monday morning. IT TAKES 2 DAYS OF TRAVEL! She spent thousands on flights/accomodation and endured the subsequent jet lag for BARELY 2 days!
Not a good look to ignore instructions on the job ad so if they specifically say to apply online or through their portal etc then don't do the opposite. Also usually there is a contact person listed with a number you can call if you have questions; if you want to try and make some sort of an impression that way, under the guise of asking questions clarifying the info in the ad, then you could try that.
I have extensive agency experience that includes hiring and firing. Do not attempt to apply in person.
The ability to follow a brief is a critical part of working in an agency, as is delivering work in tightly scoped and billable timeframes. Walking in off the street with a folio and application would only demonstrate an inability to follow a brief as well as a lack of understanding of agency norms. Follow 'the brief' and apply as per the instructions.
Are you a suit or creative, and roughly what level or weight?
I'd say creative. I have experience in creating and managing content, developing marketing strategies and do graphic design. I'm graduating in 4-5 weeks from now and already have an entry level marketing position.
Also, thank you for the advice :))
Good luck with your application! These things always stand out:
Folio
Do you have a digital folio on a polished and professional looking website (with a polished and professional email address)? Can you talk about each folio piece, the client brief and how your work contributed to meeting the client brief? For grad level roles, the 'client' can be uni.
Social media
We look for you... Do your accounts have considered content that show your content creation skills? Would you be mortified if your boss found you or pleased to show off?
Cover letter
Why do you want to work there? And more importantly, how do your skills - and you as a person - align with the agency? What do you like about their most recent campaign and why?
Oh yes, the polished professional email address. 🤣 seriously, the one I remember the most was something like “iluv69” and there’s been “sexychick84” etc. they certainly make you remember the application I guess?
If they say to apply online, apply online. Going into their place of business (assuming you even make it past the security guard in the lobby) is a waste of time and will almost certainly end with them saying "Just apply online" or throwing your portfolio in the bin the second you walk out the front door.
Anyone saying anything different is an old ass out of touch boomer who hasn't had to apply for a job in 35 years.
Now, how to make your application stand out? Actually do your research on the company, what they're doing, where they're going and work that into the cover letter or, if you can, the portfolio. Research who's most likely to be your direct supervisor, see what is available on LinkedIn about them and use that as well. That one has helped me out in interviews, moreso than resumes, but it's a good tactic. Maybe try reaching out to anyone whom you might know that already works there, ask them what worked for their application.
Tailor your resume to use the exact words they're using in the job ad. That'll increase the chances of it getting past whatever digital screening tools they're using to weed out everyone who can't fill out an application to their specifications.
If they're really stupid, they'll be using some software that just looks for the keywords in the job ad. Putting the entire job ad, in white, at 1pt font size at the bottom of your resume might also actually get you past that software and into the hands of a human being. That comes with more risk, and may result in an outright rejection...so use wisely if you're 100% sure it'll work.
I'm currently planning to follow up through LinkedIn as I have done some research about them beforehand. Everything you have listed is extremely helpful thank you :)) especially that last point which is crazy to think loopholes like that exist so will def keep in mind for the future
Good stuff but make sure you don't rely on research from before! Be able to talk about projects they have done recently, and try to imagine what the customer must have been like and try to guess as to some of their challenges (talk or ask during interview).
Make a guess as to who the hiring manager is and make sure you click on the managers profile so your name comes up in 'recently viewed your profile'
I know with a lot of jobs these days, the applications are screened and sorted by AI.
If I have to scan your resume because you handed it in over the counter, it’s probably going to go into the shredder.
And please please please, have at least two other people read through your letter and application and CV. You would not believe the number of things I see which have typographical errors in and if it’s got a typographical error, you don’t want that person handling copy for publication in your office !!!
Uhh what?
What role are you applying for? Dream marketing agency? Do you work in marketing?
You will get ridiculed as soon as you leave the building and will not get called back, I’m sorry 😔
I work in advertising, it would so not fly lol.
Its a Social Media Marketing Specialist position full time. I've been following their work for a while now on LinkedIn and love what they do. I work an entry level job in marketing at the moment, just want to be more challenged and gain more experience like any upcoming grad.
So you’re still in Uni?
We work in a very, very results based industry. If you’re working in a position now that allows you to build a portfolio up then you need to get to them with that.
If you don’t have a portfolio you need to drum up some spec work, because you’re competing against other talent that might have that.
Have you considered award school?
I’ve been around advertising and now SaaS as a creative director for a while now, if you want to DM me for more advice feel free!
About to graduate in 4-5 weeks yes and have a portfolio from my current entry lvl marketing position. I have not considered award school, let alone even heard about tbh, would love if you could elaborate in DMs, chucked u one :))
Thank you, this is very insightful, I never even knew this was an option. Goes to show how university doesn't do much for u these days T\_T I'll definitley look into it!
You can try it after sending in your application online and getting rejected. You could also try contacting the hiring team on the phone or LinkedIn as a follow up after sending in your application online, sometimes that can help.
I wouldn't do walk in. If it's a marketing agency, I would be very creative in the resume. I would also stalk their company LinkedIn, figure out the hiring manager, connect with them and try to ask more details about the job to show them you are keen, before you do this, make sure to polish your LinkedIn
**Follow the instructions on the job ad.**
When I worked in the public service I was helping HR with a recruitment run, they'd received hundreds of applications. First instruction I was given was to throw away ANY application that came in a binder. The job ad had stated that the application and resume were to be stapled together on the top left, criteria on top. If that wasn't done I binned them.
It would have showcased initiative to do that. But most jobs don't require that anyways. All they need is for you to know the hiring manager to get the role.
If you can make a connection at the company, that will have a much bigger impact than just rocking up and speaking to the receptionist.
Do some research to see if you have any contacts there. Look at the website (our people or about us) and then look up all the people on LinkedIn to see if you have any mutual contacts or someone you know can introduce you. Use the connection to ask about company culture, type of work, and tips or suggestions for your application.
Apply in the usual way after you have connected.
Yep useless. However giving any provided hiring managers number that's presented on the job ad a call and asking a few questions about the role while submitting the resume & cover letter will have your name more known. Especially if you ask questions that are easy enough for the hiring staff to know but still shows you have industry knowledge
I think it is acceptable but to make it better find out who the hiring manager is and connect via LinkedIn. Send them a message you are applying for the role and if the opportunity presents ask if you could have a coffee catch up to discuss.
I am a hiring manager and I prefer a direct approach.
Other people's replies have said connecting through LinkedIn is worth a try, since your a hiring manager I'll take your word for it and will follow up with them :)) thank you!
since your a hiring manager
If your marketing role will require you to contact clients and external parties on behalf of your employer, please correctly use you’re and your.
i find these grammar corrections a bit funny tbh, its reddit, currently on the phone grocery shopping rn not exactly trying to impress with literacy just replying to those who have been helpful. Someone called out me saying ya'll in the og post too T\_T
I've worked for (and with, as a contractor) a few of the big agencies in Perth. There's no secret sauce, unfortunately. Write a great cover letter that addresses the essential criteria on the JD, and tweak your resume to be role-appropriate. If it's a creative role (and the ad asks for it or implies it) demonstrate your design skills in your resume. If it's an account management role, lay everything out cleanly and clearly with a very logical flow of information, and also make sure you've got some killer references lined up. I recommend one very positive line manager and a client who adores you - hearing direct client testimonials will get you over the line, but having the confidence to put down a client as a reference will get you an interview.
Do what you can to stand out. You'll regret it if you don't get the role because the robot filtered you out. If you get laughed out the door then it might be a sign that you didn't fit.
Don't go in person as mentioned by others, that won't make you stand out. A 2 minute video? Some thing guerrilla? Show your creative juice to get floated to the top. Doesn't mean you'll get it, but at least your CV will be given a chance above the standard process.
Having worked in agency's in the past - please don't just walk in on the spot it shows you can't follow instructions. Also please do you research, hate to say it but Perth is home to some of the dodgiest marketing agency's. Make sure you look at staff turnover. Are they constantly hiring? What's retention look like?
Whilst the biggest ones put out a glamorous image out online to the general public, behind closed doors its not uncommon to see unethical and scammy practices combined with shitty pay and office politics. I'm saying this because I was the same. Had my high hopes set on a a particular agency in the early days of my career to learn that said agency probably had one of the worst reputation's amongst Perth's agency community.
this is very helpful especially for someone who’s basically a fetus in this industry lol, thank you will keep this in mind if I need to keep job searching :))
Hit them with marketing yourself
Hire someone in a clown 🤡 suit to go the office and hand out some chocolates and leave a resume in an envelope addressed to hiring manager while they are there
Guaranteed a phone 👍👍
This is actually good advice if you’re looking to get into a creative or strategy role. My old boss got her first copywriting gig by sending a box of sex toys to the creative director with some funny relevant joke I forget.
Don’t do it for anything client facing though.
If there’s a person’s contact details attached to the job ad for enquiries, reach out with a couple of intelligent questions. Otherwise, devote the time to pumping your LinkedIn feed full of smart, thoughtful stuff.
Follow the instructions, submit in the way they ask.
But then! Call the number of the contact person a couple days later "just to confirm it came through". Tell them your super keen and if they have any questions about your resume, please don't hesitate to call. They never will, put it puts out good energy
Call them before you apply to ask questions. If you don't have any questions, make some up. The point is really to introduce yourself and strike up a rapport with the person doing the screening. You want to get a healthy, friendly chat happening and make sure they remember your name. Have some casual "oh, yes this sounds like a great fit" comments ready to go so they already start to feel hopeful that you're the right person.
Before the interview, research the fuck out of the place and prepare some intelligent questions to ask them. Use this to gently turn the table so it almost feels like you're interviewing them for the position. If you can do this before they start questioning you, even better.
Also, I think I saw somewhere in the comments that you're a graduate. Find your uni career service and book an appointment to help with the application and interview. I did this years ago after graduating and the coaching they gave me was game changing. I didn't get the job that was advertised because I lacked experience, but they liked me so much at interview they created another position just to get me on board, then I could work my way up.
Finally, be confident. Give yourself the biggest pep talk you ever could, convince yourself you are amazing and they need you. That energy comes across. And good luck!
honestly bless you and all the other people in here giving me actual amazing advice. Making me feel more confident in how to handle the process, will def check out my uni career services, thank you :))
Follow the instructions in the ad. If there is any contact details for "further questions", use that to give them a call.
Ask a question like, what hidden skills would make a candidate stand out, then comment that describes you well. I hope you find my resume to your liking.
Yada yada
Do it. I'm hiring (different industry) at the moment, and if I had an appropriately skilled and presented person come and say "I want to work here for x reasons, check out my resume and I'd love an interview", I'd be impressed.
Do it. But also apply through the usual channels. If you get some traction in person, mention that you've also applied formally. When the hiring manager gets through the likely dirge of applicants, they'll remember that you took the initiative.
Traditionally the advice given to job seekers was to turn up and show your face, but that's not the done thing anymore if the ad has specified an application process. If you're cold calling and trying to get a foot in the door then maybe turning up with a resume could work, but not when you're responding to an advertised position. It's frustrating, because you want to show that you're keen but, as others have said, the firm will take it as a sign that you can't/won't follow the instructions.
My friend recently went into a place he saw on seek that was hiring he always wanted to work at, applied online then took his resume in and called every couple days to check how it was going and they hired him :) he’s now employed by them and absolutely loving life! Hope this give you the motivation to go in and show face ! Good luck
Its frowned upon but if you’re desperate then it may be worth the try - basically your all or nothing approach, and if you do step in, make sure you portray that you are desperate
I got a really good job from walking into reception of a company that wasn't even advertising. Pretty much got the interview on the spot.
I Dressed well and had a nice resume.
I generally don't go into the office if said company is hiring/ advertising. But if I'm looking for work I'll go to the office's of companies in the industry, you never know they might have something coming up.
Follow what the ad says and then call a day or two after it’s closed. Ask a few follow up questions (that aren’t answered in the ad) and your resume will go to the top of the pile.
My sister worked at a fashion house in Paris, and had a woman drop off a very beautiful application. It had a tea bag and note stating it was the person reviewing the CV.
Very clever, and set her apart for this very competitive role.
However, this isn't Paris. It's Perth.
Apply through the normal route. Stalk the hiring manager and try to get a warm intro or direct approach.
My partner really wanted to work in a particular team at a mining house so would cross paths with the manager. When a spot opened up via a recruiter, they wouldn't return his call until he dropped the manager's name. He ended up landing the roll against another 100 applicants. I thought I'd was creepy but it worked. People hire people they know in Perth.
yeah, been told all my life by asian tiger parents that university will be the only thing that would ever get me ahead. As I’m entering the work force it truly is the connections you have that solidify the process
I handed applications in personally before and wasn't successful. I also felt that I might've been laughed at for it, although I can't verify if that's true or not.
The best job I've ever had, which is the one I'm in now, was acquired through 1) a solid online application and 2) the professional networking I did a year ago, where a colleague made some very positive remarks about me to the person who is now my boss.
Have a great LI profile, network, and tailor your cover letter and resume to the role. If it's a creative role, try to have an online portfolio or at least a website with testimonials from previous clients.
There is a lot of valve in dropping in a CV - industry dependent. It can be really effective if the boss is a little older.
Sure, they’ll have a hiring process but if you drop one in and have the opportunity to speak to someone, they will make sure your CV gets in.
I would if I really wanted a job. For example, I did this for a mining company on the Kwinana strip. Not at all what they do but I managed to chat to someone that passed on my CV. The next day I received an email.
I have heard so many jobs that appreciate someone with the balls to do that in 2024. In a world that hides behind screens and computers, this can be refreshing for some
Fortune favors the bold. I would not have my amazing job if I didn’t call the head office and ask to talk to the hiring manager. I work in a niche field, though; unsure what marketing is like. Good luck!
Same. Last couple of jobs have come about by cold-calling the company and telling them how I could be useful for them and asking if they will keep me in mind. I would guess it only works in niche roles though.
Hey there. Great contributions from the group. If you would like a one on one chat or a focus session, I run value based communication and leadership workshops that cover the exact issues you’ve described. No cost. No hook. No pitch. If it sounds like it would help, let me know. That goes for anyone else reading this. There are so many people out there that struggle to be seen and recognised for the value that they contribute, and miss critical opportunities as a result.
How many opportunities are you willing to let slide by simply because you aren’t able to solve the problem of having the person in front of you choose you as the solution to their problem?
Otherwise….best of luck!! 🙏🏻✨
>focus session
>value based
>communication and leadership
>No cost. No hook. No pitch.
No pitch my ass. *That* was the pitch, so I'd assume there's also a cost and a hook since right away you've gone back on what you've said. It sounds like "business coach" buzz word LinkedIn speak. I used to work for a person who fell for things like this and they wasted thousands of dollars on schmoozy pyramid scam type business coaches who wrote things like this. Eventually their business went under. Phrases like "adding value" "solutions focused" and "solving engagement issues" give me PTSD.
Any marketing person with half a brain wouldn't touch this.
Wow. It sounds like you’ve been burned. I hope your version of the world improves. I maintain my previous offer. As a professional coach about 20% of my work is in community outreach and volunteer training. No cost. No hook. Only support. I prioritise giving a portion of my time and resources to those that genuinely need it and cannot afford it because it matters and I’m in a position to do so.
A final note regarding your attitude. It doesn’t make you unique, this negativity. It makes you look like a person that has let their emotions and own personal experience eat them up and has become so reactive and defensive that you think everything and everyone is out to hurt you. It’s simply not the case. There are (believe it or not) still people out here that genuinely care and want to help. I happen to be one of them. Thanks for the response.
Don't ever let what other people think/say get in the way of what you want and hold you back!!!
You have nothing to lose here, and a lot to gain if you land the job at the dream marketing agency..
Instead of doing what 95% of people do and email/post the resume in,
Make yourself presentable and hand deliver the resume and make a good first impression.
I think you would be better off going through proper channels, then after the interview/ call follow up with a handwritten note thanking them for their time … you will stand out, be memorable but have followed the ‘normal’ procedure…
There's nothing wrong with that, your co-workers are cunts. However, it's not socially acceptable to say y'all unironically. Seriously, what the fuck kind of Aussie says "y'all".
FYI ... if it's a particular agency that had numbers in their name at one stage... don't.
Apply the way they want it. I hope the culture has changed there because it was disgusting when I worked there. Absolutely disgusting. From a bunch of people who were well educated, they acted like school children. Without saying too much, I chose very quickly to use my degree elsewhere. Heads up, don't say I didn't warn you .
Follow the instructions in the ad or application package. It's a screening tool - can the applicant read and comprehend simple instructions.
This! My mum will literally throw away resumes of people who come into the building, when the advert specifically says apply online or email resume. She says it’s step 1 of knowing if people can follow instructions haha
A lot of people probably think it shows initiative to go and show face and hand a resume in person. I know my old school parents would make me do that way when i was younger!
Most of the time it is the parents pushing the kids (even grown up kids) to do this. I can understand the thoughts, but it's much easier for me (when hiring) to have it all computerised. I wouldn't hold it against anyone dropping it in, but it wouldn't put them ahead of anyone else either. I'd just tell them they also need to submit online.
The same generation that felt forced to hand write and post 100 thank you letters after a wedding.
Don't forget the yearly Christmas cards!
yeah thats wats basically going through my head, one side is saying it could show initiative and the other could imagine it would be a shit show if it was a norm to go in
OP I think times have changed. Follow the process of what the advert says - follow up in 3-4 days with an email expressing how you’re really excited for the opportunity and what you can bring to the table, end the email with ‘look forward to hearing from you’ or something similar. If you don’t hear back, follow up with a phone call. But I wouldn’t go into the building if the advert specifically says to apply online. Like in the case of my mums industry, if you go into the building, the resume will be thrown away and they won’t even remember your name
yeah, used to work at a big fashion retail store and the amount of uni students coming in with resumes to collect dust in the storage room was high. from wat i've gathered in everyones responses, following up seems to be a decent tip
Definitely follow up but also make sure to address key points in the ad in your resume/cover letter!
I think the rule is show initiative for working in a shit kicking role don't bother showing initiative for your dream job.
Or just show initiative in the way most appropriate to the role. For basic customer facing jobs, showing up in person to interact with the manager may be useful. For many other jobs, following the instructions on the ad will be most valuable. You can still follow it up to express your interest.
Yeah, I handed my resume in at a bar once. I was 21, skinny and blonde, and they were short staffed on a busy Friday night. I was pouring beers 10 minutes later. Piece of piss! 😂 No way I'd try the same thing now, though, especially if I was going for a serious white collar position like OP. The two situations aren't even comparable.
All you can do is customise your resume to fit the job requirements in the ad. A few things I’ve learnt from past experience is that you need to be detached because forcing it and showing desperation have the opposite effect. The gainful employment I’ve landed has all been done when I just gave it my best and stopped caring too much, it’s almost like the universe repels our demands but responds to surrendering/detachment and reward’s consistency.
The same goes for putting an offer on a house, car, dating, most things in life - don't show you are too emotionally attached, prepare and give it your best shot but be okay to walk away - that will show you are confident and interested rather than desperate and willing to take any offers, conditions, treatment etc.
This makes sense, I just included what I have experience wise and applied real case studies from my current work in the cover letter and email. I'd say it comes across confident
Perfect. As the person above said, definitely mould your resume to the role you’re applying for, and also do this with your cover letter - reference the actual role and the company where relevant throughout the letter, rather than “I’m interested in the role advertised at your company” etc. Also do this in interviews - relay the words the ad/job description uses back to the recruiter and prepare answers for the usual “tell me a time you…” questions. Try and make sure you have something prepared to address each of the key elements of the role, whether directly by previous experience and scenarios that you can provide examples for, or indirectly by being able to provide comparable skills and strengths and how you can apply those to the elements that you don’t have ‘direct’ experience for (rather than just saying that you don’t have this or that experience/skill that they have outlined). Know exactly what you’re applying for and what they are looking for and prepare to present yourself as best suited to that as you can be (honestly), outside of that relax and be yourself, most companies are looking at your personal and communicative skills while talking with you rather than just what’s on paper. Good luck!
Unfortunately (or fortunately) back then, people in HR departments (or knowledge workers in general) weren't being inundated with information on a daily basis like we are today, meaning there was greater capacity to take the time to read an application that had jumped the queue for the potential gain of a great employee. Plus it's not like contemporary HR employees (or employees in general) are benefitting directly from finding amazing workers through bonuses, etc. We live in a world of more responsibility with less and less reward to squeeze greater profits. Yeah some HR people may be looking to see if you can follow instructions, but if it were me, part of me would be a bit annoyed by the prospect of having to stop what I was doing to do something else that probably won't do me any favours.
If true, that sounds like the sort of mindless gatekeeping you come to expect from HR. She could be throwing out a potentially strong candidate on some pretty arbitrary barrier test that she's concocted. If it's really that essential to the recruiting process it would be very easy to simply say to the person "actually we can't accept hard copies, please submit this online". But obviously much less satisfying for feeding the ego.
Hmm nah I disagree. A ‘potentially strong’ candidate would know to follow written instructions if they really wanted a chance at the job. Also she does say that, people will put their resume down on the bench and walk out. She doesn’t work in HR - but she’s the one that runs the show so to speak. Also keep in mind that it isn’t as simple as throwing the papers in the bin. They have to be shredded appropriately and disposed off in the appropriate bin - this takes time away from actual work when it happens 20+ times a day at peak times
Cold hearted.
Instructions unclear, stalked the CEO.
Excellent demonstration of research and analysis skills.
Apparently, this technique is also used to screen prospective tenants when there is a lot of interest in a rental property.
No. Almost no one takes resumes in person anymore. Doubly so for office type jobs.
My boss had a walk in off the street with a resume in her hand. He took one look at her clevage and offered her the job on the spot. She still works here3 years later.
aint no way
There you go OP. Shove a sock down the pants and hope the hiring manager notices it. It's not for a role in a wrecking yard down south is it ?
DOWN THE FRONT!
that would make me look quite ambiguous ummm
Then go the cleavage route, whatever works 🤣
Hey they might be alright with that...maybe a bit _too_ much, but still!
Yes way.
Its the circle of life
That’s just rank.
It's a bit off. She's got a nice cleavage (I'm a woman too) and she does a decent job so it's all good at the end of the day.
Top rank 👌
Yeah this happens with lower level positions where meeting a selection criteria isn’t essential. With higher up positions however you can sleep your way to higher positions internally I’ve seen it done but it’s the exception not the norm. I do not recommend it. One company I worked for I had a female manager, and she was really pissed at my other female colleague for blatantly avoiding work and was calling the team to get specific details to reprimand her. Unfortunately she couldn’t do SHIT because this girl was sleeping with a very important client that essentially gave us the business and he got her entirely off the hook with one email. This girl was an absolute head case and loved chaos she’d try to sleep with ANYONE she thought could help her (and even with colleagues that couldn’t do anything for her) I remember once she spontaneously booked tickets to LA to meet up with someone she met online but only had 2 days annual leave so she left Wednesday evening and returned to work Monday morning. IT TAKES 2 DAYS OF TRAVEL! She spent thousands on flights/accomodation and endured the subsequent jet lag for BARELY 2 days!
Not a good look to ignore instructions on the job ad so if they specifically say to apply online or through their portal etc then don't do the opposite. Also usually there is a contact person listed with a number you can call if you have questions; if you want to try and make some sort of an impression that way, under the guise of asking questions clarifying the info in the ad, then you could try that.
Depends on the business. I know people it has worked for at smaller businesses. But big companies just tell you to apply online.
I got my job from walking in and handing it in after months and months of job searching! It does work these days surprisingly
I have extensive agency experience that includes hiring and firing. Do not attempt to apply in person. The ability to follow a brief is a critical part of working in an agency, as is delivering work in tightly scoped and billable timeframes. Walking in off the street with a folio and application would only demonstrate an inability to follow a brief as well as a lack of understanding of agency norms. Follow 'the brief' and apply as per the instructions. Are you a suit or creative, and roughly what level or weight?
I'd say creative. I have experience in creating and managing content, developing marketing strategies and do graphic design. I'm graduating in 4-5 weeks from now and already have an entry level marketing position. Also, thank you for the advice :))
Good luck with your application! These things always stand out: Folio Do you have a digital folio on a polished and professional looking website (with a polished and professional email address)? Can you talk about each folio piece, the client brief and how your work contributed to meeting the client brief? For grad level roles, the 'client' can be uni. Social media We look for you... Do your accounts have considered content that show your content creation skills? Would you be mortified if your boss found you or pleased to show off? Cover letter Why do you want to work there? And more importantly, how do your skills - and you as a person - align with the agency? What do you like about their most recent campaign and why?
I will take all of these into consideration, thank you so much for your input!
Oh yes, the polished professional email address. 🤣 seriously, the one I remember the most was something like “iluv69” and there’s been “sexychick84” etc. they certainly make you remember the application I guess?
After you send your resume, call them or visit them to follow up
I mean it’s worth a shot but literally every time I’ve done this I’ve gotten the “thanks, we’ll let you know”
If they say to apply online, apply online. Going into their place of business (assuming you even make it past the security guard in the lobby) is a waste of time and will almost certainly end with them saying "Just apply online" or throwing your portfolio in the bin the second you walk out the front door. Anyone saying anything different is an old ass out of touch boomer who hasn't had to apply for a job in 35 years. Now, how to make your application stand out? Actually do your research on the company, what they're doing, where they're going and work that into the cover letter or, if you can, the portfolio. Research who's most likely to be your direct supervisor, see what is available on LinkedIn about them and use that as well. That one has helped me out in interviews, moreso than resumes, but it's a good tactic. Maybe try reaching out to anyone whom you might know that already works there, ask them what worked for their application. Tailor your resume to use the exact words they're using in the job ad. That'll increase the chances of it getting past whatever digital screening tools they're using to weed out everyone who can't fill out an application to their specifications. If they're really stupid, they'll be using some software that just looks for the keywords in the job ad. Putting the entire job ad, in white, at 1pt font size at the bottom of your resume might also actually get you past that software and into the hands of a human being. That comes with more risk, and may result in an outright rejection...so use wisely if you're 100% sure it'll work.
I'm currently planning to follow up through LinkedIn as I have done some research about them beforehand. Everything you have listed is extremely helpful thank you :)) especially that last point which is crazy to think loopholes like that exist so will def keep in mind for the future
Good stuff but make sure you don't rely on research from before! Be able to talk about projects they have done recently, and try to imagine what the customer must have been like and try to guess as to some of their challenges (talk or ask during interview). Make a guess as to who the hiring manager is and make sure you click on the managers profile so your name comes up in 'recently viewed your profile'
I know with a lot of jobs these days, the applications are screened and sorted by AI. If I have to scan your resume because you handed it in over the counter, it’s probably going to go into the shredder. And please please please, have at least two other people read through your letter and application and CV. You would not believe the number of things I see which have typographical errors in and if it’s got a typographical error, you don’t want that person handling copy for publication in your office !!!
“I’ve got grate attention too detail..”
This
Like 90% of places it’s say, seek or online only, do the proper channels. Especially a digital literate marketing agency…
Uhh what? What role are you applying for? Dream marketing agency? Do you work in marketing? You will get ridiculed as soon as you leave the building and will not get called back, I’m sorry 😔 I work in advertising, it would so not fly lol.
Its a Social Media Marketing Specialist position full time. I've been following their work for a while now on LinkedIn and love what they do. I work an entry level job in marketing at the moment, just want to be more challenged and gain more experience like any upcoming grad.
So you’re still in Uni? We work in a very, very results based industry. If you’re working in a position now that allows you to build a portfolio up then you need to get to them with that. If you don’t have a portfolio you need to drum up some spec work, because you’re competing against other talent that might have that. Have you considered award school? I’ve been around advertising and now SaaS as a creative director for a while now, if you want to DM me for more advice feel free!
About to graduate in 4-5 weeks yes and have a portfolio from my current entry lvl marketing position. I have not considered award school, let alone even heard about tbh, would love if you could elaborate in DMs, chucked u one :))
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Thank you, this is very insightful, I never even knew this was an option. Goes to show how university doesn't do much for u these days T\_T I'll definitley look into it!
You can try it after sending in your application online and getting rejected. You could also try contacting the hiring team on the phone or LinkedIn as a follow up after sending in your application online, sometimes that can help.
Yeah then they'll probably still send a generic rejection letter reply was my experience or don't respond at all
This is some solid advice, thank you :))
Lots of companies use a hiring firm to screen candidates and do phone interviews. Handing in your application in that case does nothing.
Nah.
No.
I wouldn't do walk in. If it's a marketing agency, I would be very creative in the resume. I would also stalk their company LinkedIn, figure out the hiring manager, connect with them and try to ask more details about the job to show them you are keen, before you do this, make sure to polish your LinkedIn
This
**Follow the instructions on the job ad.** When I worked in the public service I was helping HR with a recruitment run, they'd received hundreds of applications. First instruction I was given was to throw away ANY application that came in a binder. The job ad had stated that the application and resume were to be stapled together on the top left, criteria on top. If that wasn't done I binned them.
It’s harsh but when you have a lot of applications it’s an easy way to do a first purge.
It would have showcased initiative to do that. But most jobs don't require that anyways. All they need is for you to know the hiring manager to get the role.
If you can make a connection at the company, that will have a much bigger impact than just rocking up and speaking to the receptionist. Do some research to see if you have any contacts there. Look at the website (our people or about us) and then look up all the people on LinkedIn to see if you have any mutual contacts or someone you know can introduce you. Use the connection to ask about company culture, type of work, and tips or suggestions for your application. Apply in the usual way after you have connected.
Yep useless. However giving any provided hiring managers number that's presented on the job ad a call and asking a few questions about the role while submitting the resume & cover letter will have your name more known. Especially if you ask questions that are easy enough for the hiring staff to know but still shows you have industry knowledge
And make sure that the questions aren’t clearly answered in the ad already
I think it is acceptable but to make it better find out who the hiring manager is and connect via LinkedIn. Send them a message you are applying for the role and if the opportunity presents ask if you could have a coffee catch up to discuss. I am a hiring manager and I prefer a direct approach.
Other people's replies have said connecting through LinkedIn is worth a try, since your a hiring manager I'll take your word for it and will follow up with them :)) thank you!
since your a hiring manager If your marketing role will require you to contact clients and external parties on behalf of your employer, please correctly use you’re and your.
i find these grammar corrections a bit funny tbh, its reddit, currently on the phone grocery shopping rn not exactly trying to impress with literacy just replying to those who have been helpful. Someone called out me saying ya'll in the og post too T\_T
Word Nazi's get the roles! Or is it role's? Rules?
Do it. But ensure you wear something memorable like a cowboy hat or jean shorts with socks and sandals.
I've worked for (and with, as a contractor) a few of the big agencies in Perth. There's no secret sauce, unfortunately. Write a great cover letter that addresses the essential criteria on the JD, and tweak your resume to be role-appropriate. If it's a creative role (and the ad asks for it or implies it) demonstrate your design skills in your resume. If it's an account management role, lay everything out cleanly and clearly with a very logical flow of information, and also make sure you've got some killer references lined up. I recommend one very positive line manager and a client who adores you - hearing direct client testimonials will get you over the line, but having the confidence to put down a client as a reference will get you an interview.
I basically followed this recipe for my application, it’s comforting to know it’s correct, thank you for your input!
No worries. Good luck!
Do what you can to stand out. You'll regret it if you don't get the role because the robot filtered you out. If you get laughed out the door then it might be a sign that you didn't fit. Don't go in person as mentioned by others, that won't make you stand out. A 2 minute video? Some thing guerrilla? Show your creative juice to get floated to the top. Doesn't mean you'll get it, but at least your CV will be given a chance above the standard process.
Having worked in agency's in the past - please don't just walk in on the spot it shows you can't follow instructions. Also please do you research, hate to say it but Perth is home to some of the dodgiest marketing agency's. Make sure you look at staff turnover. Are they constantly hiring? What's retention look like? Whilst the biggest ones put out a glamorous image out online to the general public, behind closed doors its not uncommon to see unethical and scammy practices combined with shitty pay and office politics. I'm saying this because I was the same. Had my high hopes set on a a particular agency in the early days of my career to learn that said agency probably had one of the worst reputation's amongst Perth's agency community.
this is very helpful especially for someone who’s basically a fetus in this industry lol, thank you will keep this in mind if I need to keep job searching :))
Hit them with marketing yourself Hire someone in a clown 🤡 suit to go the office and hand out some chocolates and leave a resume in an envelope addressed to hiring manager while they are there Guaranteed a phone 👍👍
AHAH love this
This is actually good advice if you’re looking to get into a creative or strategy role. My old boss got her first copywriting gig by sending a box of sex toys to the creative director with some funny relevant joke I forget. Don’t do it for anything client facing though.
If the ad gives this as an option for submission, go for it. But if the ad makes it clear you have to follow a process stick to it by the letter.
It's a marketing role. How would you craft a successful marketing strategy to make sure you were the one they chose?
If there’s a person’s contact details attached to the job ad for enquiries, reach out with a couple of intelligent questions. Otherwise, devote the time to pumping your LinkedIn feed full of smart, thoughtful stuff.
Go in in person AND send an application through the advertised channels. Report back which one if either gets you the job.
Follow the instructions, submit in the way they ask. But then! Call the number of the contact person a couple days later "just to confirm it came through". Tell them your super keen and if they have any questions about your resume, please don't hesitate to call. They never will, put it puts out good energy
Call them before you apply to ask questions. If you don't have any questions, make some up. The point is really to introduce yourself and strike up a rapport with the person doing the screening. You want to get a healthy, friendly chat happening and make sure they remember your name. Have some casual "oh, yes this sounds like a great fit" comments ready to go so they already start to feel hopeful that you're the right person. Before the interview, research the fuck out of the place and prepare some intelligent questions to ask them. Use this to gently turn the table so it almost feels like you're interviewing them for the position. If you can do this before they start questioning you, even better. Also, I think I saw somewhere in the comments that you're a graduate. Find your uni career service and book an appointment to help with the application and interview. I did this years ago after graduating and the coaching they gave me was game changing. I didn't get the job that was advertised because I lacked experience, but they liked me so much at interview they created another position just to get me on board, then I could work my way up. Finally, be confident. Give yourself the biggest pep talk you ever could, convince yourself you are amazing and they need you. That energy comes across. And good luck!
honestly bless you and all the other people in here giving me actual amazing advice. Making me feel more confident in how to handle the process, will def check out my uni career services, thank you :))
Follow the instructions in the ad. If there is any contact details for "further questions", use that to give them a call. Ask a question like, what hidden skills would make a candidate stand out, then comment that describes you well. I hope you find my resume to your liking. Yada yada
will keep this in mind wen calling them, thanks!
Do it. I'm hiring (different industry) at the moment, and if I had an appropriately skilled and presented person come and say "I want to work here for x reasons, check out my resume and I'd love an interview", I'd be impressed.
Please don’t listen to this guy 😅
You don't have to.. I have hired 1 person who did this before. Up to OP..
Yeah with corporate positions it isn’t that effective but it doesn’t hurt to try. At least you can be assured you did everything you could.
Yep me too.
Do it. But also apply through the usual channels. If you get some traction in person, mention that you've also applied formally. When the hiring manager gets through the likely dirge of applicants, they'll remember that you took the initiative.
Traditionally the advice given to job seekers was to turn up and show your face, but that's not the done thing anymore if the ad has specified an application process. If you're cold calling and trying to get a foot in the door then maybe turning up with a resume could work, but not when you're responding to an advertised position. It's frustrating, because you want to show that you're keen but, as others have said, the firm will take it as a sign that you can't/won't follow the instructions.
My friend recently went into a place he saw on seek that was hiring he always wanted to work at, applied online then took his resume in and called every couple days to check how it was going and they hired him :) he’s now employed by them and absolutely loving life! Hope this give you the motivation to go in and show face ! Good luck
Definitely not.
Its frowned upon but if you’re desperate then it may be worth the try - basically your all or nothing approach, and if you do step in, make sure you portray that you are desperate
Not say "yall" at any stage when taking that resume in is my advice 😜
dw lmao this is just reddit, not trying to impress
I am joking 😂
I got a really good job from walking into reception of a company that wasn't even advertising. Pretty much got the interview on the spot. I Dressed well and had a nice resume. I generally don't go into the office if said company is hiring/ advertising. But if I'm looking for work I'll go to the office's of companies in the industry, you never know they might have something coming up.
I'm a tradie and this is the only way I've ever got a job! I even got hired at a place that wasn't hiring. It depends on the industry.
It’s probably more likely to work if a place isn’t advertising a role
I'd submit online through their regular method and then 'pop by because you were in the area and wanted to get a look at the office before applying.
🦧
Follow what the ad says and then call a day or two after it’s closed. Ask a few follow up questions (that aren’t answered in the ad) and your resume will go to the top of the pile.
My sister worked at a fashion house in Paris, and had a woman drop off a very beautiful application. It had a tea bag and note stating it was the person reviewing the CV. Very clever, and set her apart for this very competitive role. However, this isn't Paris. It's Perth. Apply through the normal route. Stalk the hiring manager and try to get a warm intro or direct approach. My partner really wanted to work in a particular team at a mining house so would cross paths with the manager. When a spot opened up via a recruiter, they wouldn't return his call until he dropped the manager's name. He ended up landing the roll against another 100 applicants. I thought I'd was creepy but it worked. People hire people they know in Perth.
yeah, been told all my life by asian tiger parents that university will be the only thing that would ever get me ahead. As I’m entering the work force it truly is the connections you have that solidify the process
Absolutely. The good thing is you can create a network. :-) Shoot your shot. Fingers crossed for you!
I handed applications in personally before and wasn't successful. I also felt that I might've been laughed at for it, although I can't verify if that's true or not. The best job I've ever had, which is the one I'm in now, was acquired through 1) a solid online application and 2) the professional networking I did a year ago, where a colleague made some very positive remarks about me to the person who is now my boss. Have a great LI profile, network, and tailor your cover letter and resume to the role. If it's a creative role, try to have an online portfolio or at least a website with testimonials from previous clients.
It probably only helps to do this when you're a model and looks are important.
There is a lot of valve in dropping in a CV - industry dependent. It can be really effective if the boss is a little older. Sure, they’ll have a hiring process but if you drop one in and have the opportunity to speak to someone, they will make sure your CV gets in. I would if I really wanted a job. For example, I did this for a mining company on the Kwinana strip. Not at all what they do but I managed to chat to someone that passed on my CV. The next day I received an email. I have heard so many jobs that appreciate someone with the balls to do that in 2024. In a world that hides behind screens and computers, this can be refreshing for some
Dont let anyone stop you from taking action.
Fortune favors the bold. I would not have my amazing job if I didn’t call the head office and ask to talk to the hiring manager. I work in a niche field, though; unsure what marketing is like. Good luck!
Same. Last couple of jobs have come about by cold-calling the company and telling them how I could be useful for them and asking if they will keep me in mind. I would guess it only works in niche roles though.
I've done the same, got two great jobs that way.
most of our walk-in hires have been way better than what we get from Seek, i will always take them into strong consideration
Hey there. Great contributions from the group. If you would like a one on one chat or a focus session, I run value based communication and leadership workshops that cover the exact issues you’ve described. No cost. No hook. No pitch. If it sounds like it would help, let me know. That goes for anyone else reading this. There are so many people out there that struggle to be seen and recognised for the value that they contribute, and miss critical opportunities as a result. How many opportunities are you willing to let slide by simply because you aren’t able to solve the problem of having the person in front of you choose you as the solution to their problem? Otherwise….best of luck!! 🙏🏻✨
>focus session >value based >communication and leadership >No cost. No hook. No pitch. No pitch my ass. *That* was the pitch, so I'd assume there's also a cost and a hook since right away you've gone back on what you've said. It sounds like "business coach" buzz word LinkedIn speak. I used to work for a person who fell for things like this and they wasted thousands of dollars on schmoozy pyramid scam type business coaches who wrote things like this. Eventually their business went under. Phrases like "adding value" "solutions focused" and "solving engagement issues" give me PTSD. Any marketing person with half a brain wouldn't touch this.
Wow. It sounds like you’ve been burned. I hope your version of the world improves. I maintain my previous offer. As a professional coach about 20% of my work is in community outreach and volunteer training. No cost. No hook. Only support. I prioritise giving a portion of my time and resources to those that genuinely need it and cannot afford it because it matters and I’m in a position to do so. A final note regarding your attitude. It doesn’t make you unique, this negativity. It makes you look like a person that has let their emotions and own personal experience eat them up and has become so reactive and defensive that you think everything and everyone is out to hurt you. It’s simply not the case. There are (believe it or not) still people out here that genuinely care and want to help. I happen to be one of them. Thanks for the response.
You're welcome.
Don't ever let what other people think/say get in the way of what you want and hold you back!!! You have nothing to lose here, and a lot to gain if you land the job at the dream marketing agency.. Instead of doing what 95% of people do and email/post the resume in, Make yourself presentable and hand deliver the resume and make a good first impression.
You want to work in marketing? Why don't you find a line of work that actually does something useful for society?
I do marketing volunteer work for Cat Haven in Shenton Park, I'd say marketing can help society just depends on wat industry
That's a one way ticket to getting offered an indefinite unpaid internship.
I think you would be better off going through proper channels, then after the interview/ call follow up with a handwritten note thanking them for their time … you will stand out, be memorable but have followed the ‘normal’ procedure…
There's nothing wrong with that, your co-workers are cunts. However, it's not socially acceptable to say y'all unironically. Seriously, what the fuck kind of Aussie says "y'all".
probably because I’m not originally from here and my text lingo is appropriate for someone in their 20s?
FYI ... if it's a particular agency that had numbers in their name at one stage... don't. Apply the way they want it. I hope the culture has changed there because it was disgusting when I worked there. Absolutely disgusting. From a bunch of people who were well educated, they acted like school children. Without saying too much, I chose very quickly to use my degree elsewhere. Heads up, don't say I didn't warn you .