Click apply. Send your resume. Maybe even attach a cover letter. Then repeat.

Sound familiar? That’s what 99% of people are doing and that’s exactly why you’re blending in. Here’s the truth: if you’re serious about landing the role, you’ve got to break the pattern.

And here’s what I’ve personally done so this is not theory, not fluff, just a system that helped me land a job in a completely different industry.

The Secret?

Pick up the phone.

Even if the ad doesn’t list a contact, you can find a number. Call the company. Ask to speak with the hiring manager. Be respectful but be direct.

Here’s why it works:

• Most people won’t do it. Less than 10% of candidates make the call. You instantly rise to the top just by showing up differently.

• You become more than just a name on a resume. If you get them on the phone, you’ve got 60 seconds to make an impression. Quick intro. Why you’re calling. One punchy reason you’re the right fit. Now you’re a real human and not just file #143 in their inbox.

• You’ll get info no one else has. If the hiring manager gives you insight into the role, tailor your resume accordingly. Smart candidates adjust and the lazy ones spray and pray.

• It shows initiative and that’s worth its weight in gold. Every hiring manager I know respects someone who takes the lead. If you do this right, they’ll already be picturing you on the team.

• Bonus: you might skip the pile altogether. If you leave a strong impression, you can jump the queue and land an interview before others even get a callback.

Sign Off

Look, I get it. Picking up the phone can feel uncomfortable. But if you want different results, you’ve got to take different actions.

And if the first person doesn’t bite? Hang up and dial the next one. Back yourself and the right company will too.

If this works for you (and I reckon it will), I’d love to hear your story. Shoot me a message on LinkedIn and let me know how it played out.