Should I Drop Off My Resume In Person?

You see a job advertisement online, and it suits you. You could do the job with one hand tied behind your back, you’d enjoy the work, and it’s at a company you’ve always admired.
And, as it turns out, the company is located just down the street from you. Although the post directs you to upload your resume, why not take a trip over to the company’s office, ask for the corporate recruiter, and hand them the resume?
It’d be great! Why wouldn’t they want to meet you? You’d be a perfect fit for the job, and they’d know — on the spot, no less! — that they could end the search right here and now!
Unfortunately, things are a bit more complicated. First, email and second, online job applications. As these systems arose, many companies got rid of “employment centers” where they would take walk-in applications of job seekers. Some companies still operate walk-in employment centers.
I had a experience of in person drop, here I would like to share some useful tips:
- First, find out when your target will be in so you know you will be able to meet recruiters or HR person…otherwise you’ll end up leaving your resume with someone, and therefore may or may not get to them.
- Don’t go during the change of shift times or during meal times. I’d aim for an hour or hour and a half after a shift change to drop in.
- Dress as though you are going on a real-live interview…because it could very well turn into one. Also bring extra copies of your resume, cover letter, credentials, etc.
- However, don’t expect an interview. They may be willing to talk to you, or may just accept your resume and make some vague promises. Don’t set yourself up for disappointment — hope for the best, but prepare for the worst.
- When you see HR person, introduce yourself, tell them you heard about the job from your mole…and unless your mole really needs to be anonymous, mentioning a real name goes alot further in the credibility department than saying “just someone” told me.
- Unless they absolutely says “No” to you, be sure to tell them that you’ll follow-up in a week or so…and do just that. Also, immediately sending thank-you email is a must.
- Last, if it turns out you miss the right person and have to leave your resume and cover with someone, be sure to take down the first and last name of both the manager and the person you are leaving the resume with as well as the date and time you were there. Doing that will give your resume better odds of making it to their desk, because when they call you for interview you can tell them that “I left my resume with so-and-so on Wednesday afternoon, so that could get it to you.
What should you do if you feel you’re the perfect candidate and you want to make a positive impression and stand out?
- Apply online first — promptly. Yes, it’s a pain, but go online to the company’s website, upload your resume, fill out those boxes, and respond however the online job ad requires. Doing as you’re asked shows you respect the company’s processes and their employees’ time.
- Reach out to an appropriate contact online. There is nothing wrong with finding the recruiter or hiring manager and sending them a brief note via email or through LinkedIn.
- Leverage your network. Do you know somebody who works at the company? Ask them to put in a good word and route your resume on your behalf.