Look bad if I don't informally inquire? And do I use Sir/Madam?

Galaxymoo

I'm applying for a few roles at the moment and a couple of job adverts give a number to call for informal inquiries. One even states that they will meet off site for an informal chat. However, these particular roles I have thoroughly researched so I really can't think of any questions to ask. I don't want to ask silly questions where they think I've not researched the company already.

But... I feel that I should call - to make myself stand out from the other candidates. Maybe they even prefer to talk to candidates informally?
I'm just wondering if it would reflect badly if I didn't call?

Also - I feel uneasy putting 'Dear Sir or Madam' on my covering letter. When I cannot find out anywhere the name of the recruitment manager, is it better to do just put 'Sir or Madam' or to call the company to ask for their name? I'm not sure if this is too forward and means people have to go out of their way for me?

Thanks for any help!

LittleVoice

Galaxymoo wrote: »

I'm applying for a few roles at the moment and a couple of job adverts give a number to call for informal inquiries. One even states that they will meet off site for an informal chat. However, these particular roles I have thoroughly researched so I really can't think of any questions to ask. I don't want to ask silly questions where they think I've not researched the company already.

But... I feel that I should call - to make myself stand out from the other candidates. Maybe they even prefer to talk to candidates informally?
I'm just wondering if it would reflect badly if I didn't call?

Also - I feel uneasy putting 'Dear Sir or Madam' on my covering letter. When I cannot find out anywhere the name of the recruitment manager, is it better to do just put 'Sir or Madam' or to call the company to ask for their name? I'm not sure if this is too forward and means people have to go out of their way for me?

Thanks for any help!

I would have thought meeting off-site was highly unusual. What sort and level of job are you wanting to apply for? Are they mobile phone numbers?

lizzy85

I put "Good Day Hiring Manager" on my cover letter. I think it is okay to call them. At least they know that you are interested in the position.

DCFC79

It cant do no harm if you were to call.

phill99

lizzy85 wrote: »

I put "Good Day Hiring Manager" on my cover letter. I think it is okay to call them. At least they know that you are interested in the position.

As an employer, I can guarantee that your application would go straight in the bin and I wouldn't even acknowledge that I had received.

If you cannot do the basics such as address a letter correctly, you will not be taken seriously.

Your attitude is absolutely disgraceful and you don't deserve to be employed.

missbiggles1

phill99 wrote: »

As an employer, I can guarantee that your application would go straight in the bin and I wouldn't even acknowledge that I had received.

If you cannot do the basics such as address a letter correctly, you will not be taken seriously.

Your attitude is absolutely disgraceful and you don't deserve to be employed.

I thought she was joking!:eek:

phill99

missbiggles1 wrote: »

I thought she was joking!:eek:

As God is my witness, I have received spec letters headed 'Hiya'. Are these people serious about employment?

Galaxymoo

LittleVoice wrote: »

I would have thought meeting off-site was highly unusual. What sort and level of job are you wanting to apply for? Are they mobile phone numbers?

It's a kosher job - advert was on the company website. It's a PhD entry level job

DKLS

lizzy85 wrote: »

I put "Good Day Hiring Manager" on my cover letter. I think it is okay to call them. At least they know that you are interested in the position.

Did you get the job?

MatyMoo

I would be asking how the vacancy arose and maybe some questions that you know the answer to so you can see how honest or informed about the company they are

Galaxymoo

Thanks Matymoo