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Unsolicited job search

It takes more to apply unsolicited for a job, student job, or project-oriented course (internship) - you start from the beginning, when the company may not even know that they need your competencies. But you may be the only applicant. So how can you go about it?

Unsolicited job search

It takes more to apply unsolicited for a job, student job, or project-oriented course (internship) - you start from the beginning, when the company may not even know that they need your competencies. But you may be the only applicant. So how can you go about it?

In Denmark, when you are applying with no job ad to refer to, you must become an expert in the company. You need to find out find out, e.g., which functions are in the company, which challenges they face, and how you can create value for them.

Based on your research, you must identify and communicate:

  • The “problem” you want to solve
  • Your solution to the problem

You have to show why you are highly motivated for exactly this company.

Through your time at AAU, you have become an expert in making research questions and problem formulations. Now, apply your sense for relevant issues.

Guide to get started

Unsolicited search in 5 steps

Source: Ballisager's recruitment analysis 2023

What do Danish companies like when you call them?

58 %

That you seem positive and top motivated

50 %

That you make your competencies relevant

42 %

That you ask them 2-4 good questions

CV and cover letter may not be the answer

Be careful not to waste your time writing an unsolicited cover letter that is irrelevant to the company. Maybe a short email or something else is better for them? Research and ask what they prefer before you start.

If they ask for a cover letter and CV, target it, show your motivation, make your ideas concrete, use words they understand, and show how you can make a difference to them.

To avoid wasting both your own and the company's time, we recommend that you speak to the company before sending them an application.

Don't do this:

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Kick in the door

Career cliché #119

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Kick in the door

Career cliché #119