Finding the right opportunities can be challenging for a VA. Suddenly, it seems we are all swimming in the same river, which can feel overwhelming. While job boards and client referrals are common ways to land positions, open applications present a powerful yet often overlooked strategy.
This blog post will explore why open applications matter for virtual assistants and provide actionable tips on how to ace them. Let’s dive in!
Take Control of Your Career Path
When I recently set up my Upwork account, I thought about open applications. Drawing from my experience as a recruiter, I often advised applicants to take the initiative and directly approach companies rather than waiting passively around for job offers to pop-up. This personal experience has given me a unique perspective on the power of open applications.
Why am I sitting here today, hoping to be picked for a job interview where I need to outbid other candidates with my money? Like “What?”
Witnessing the trend of candidates competing and spending money to be considered for a position is disheartening. But as a virtual assistant, you have the power to choose your opportunities. It's time to take the reins and steer your career path. With open applications, you can be in control and confident in finding the right opportunities. Let’s dive into it!
The Importance of Open Applications
Let us first consider the importance of open applications. Some of you may never have considered this because you are unfamiliar with the process. No worries; I will walk you through it!
Let me quickly give you some of the most important key points on why you should start sending out open applications right now!
🔓 Unlock Hidden Opportunities
Many companies don't advertise all their openings publicly. I saw this first-hand as a recruiter myself. They often called us before posting a job application and asked if we knew the right candidate. Don’t forget that companies also have a budget, so sometimes, they look at their network/ recruiters before posting an official job offer.
By sending open applications, you're not just applying for a job but opening doors to hidden opportunities. This can give you a competitive edge, as businesses might have upcoming needs or projects not yet listed on job boards. It's a chance to discover something new and exciting in your career, sparking your curiosity and anticipation for what could be.
🚀 Demonstrate Initiative
Yes, it’s true; companies love to be loved. When you submit an open application, you show them that you are proactive and eager to work with them. This level of initiative can make a strong impression, highlighting your enthusiasm and dedication. It's a way to show them that you're not just another candidate but someone who is truly interested in their company and what they do.
🌐 Build a Network
There we go again; let’s network! This is SO important when you are a Freelancer. Even if there isn't an immediate opening, your open application might be remembered for future opportunities. This is how I got jobs in the past. Building relationships with potential employers through open applications can create a network of contacts that could be invaluable in your career.
✏️ Tailor Your Application
Don’t think in bulk. When you apply for advertised positions, you often compete with numerous candidates. Open applications allow you to customise your approach, emphasising how your unique skills and experiences align with the company's needs, thus making you stand out. Yes, it takes time, but believe me, it pays off!
How to Ace Your Open Application
Alright, you have decided to go for it! Great! But what now? Let me share how I approach companies that have led to successful job offers in 7 steps below
🏢 What companies would you like to work for?
Yes, you are now in control! You can pick who you want to work for. Isn’t that amazing?The most important step out of the process is to think about who you want to work for. Is it big enterprises, a specific niche, woman-owned, start-ups, or international/ local?
Step 1: List the top ten companies/ clients you want to work for.
🎯 Match your skills and create a position
Once you know which companies you want to work for, see if your skills match the company. Let’s say I am an introvert who likes to work steady hours as a VA and needs structure. I should, therefore, not approach start-ups, for example. Stay close to who you are and what you can offer a company.
The more you are aligned with the company as a person, the better the change you have to match.
Step 2: List your skills and personality traits. Do they match the company's services and processes?
BONUS Who are you as a VA? Check out my new blog that dives deeper in getting a better understanding about who your are and how you can use this knowlegde to approach companies.
🔍 Research the Company Thoroughly
You must understand the company and align with its mission. You need to feel: “That is amazing; I love what they are doing and would love to be part of it.”Research the company before sending an open application to understand its culture, values, and business needs. If you don’t like something about the company, don’t waste your time and look further. You want a 100% confirmation from your side.
Step 3: Research a company per day. Take your time. Make sure you have covered all steps to determine if the company is a good match for you.
📝 Craft a Compelling Cover Letter
Your cover letter is everything! Start with a strong opening that grabs attention, then explain why you are interested in the company and how you can contribute to their success. Highlight your most relevant skills and experiences, and close with a call to action, expressing your eagerness for a potential discussion. From my experience, you do not want to create a long intro. Bonus tip: Approach them in their own company language. Look at their website to see how they communicate, and then meet them with your own style in the middle.
Bonus tip: I can’t emphasise this one enough. Don’t separate your cover letter into a separate attachment within your introduction email. Your cover letter should be the introduction email you send to the company.
Often, people don’t have time, and if they first need to read an introduction email, then open a cover letter and then a CV, you lose them.
Cover letters should not be too long. Always remember that everyone is busy. Nobody likes to read too much, especially if they don’t know you. Keep it short, structured, and simple.
Step 4: Start crafting different cover letters (introduction emails) and narrow them down to one. Make sure that you tailor your cover letter to the company itself.
💼 Showcase Your Skills and Experience
Grab your CV and have a good look at it. The problem is often that CVs are not appropriately structured. Take the time to craft an excellent CV that is easy to read. Don’t go overboard with impressive designs and fonts. Showcases your skills, experience, and achievements. Include any certifications, courses, or relevant projects demonstrating your virtual assistant expertise. Ensure your resume is tailored to the specific needs of the company you're applying to.
Usually, a recruiter looks first at the top 5 last performed jobs. After that, they can decide to read more.
Step 5: Start a new CV from scratch or update your current CV into an easily readable format.
📧 Follow Up
After sending your open application, follow up with the company if you haven't received a response within a few weeks. A polite follow-up email reiterating your interest and inquiring about any potential opportunities can demonstrate your continued enthusiasm and professionalism. Step 6: Only follow up once! 📊 Track your applications
Monitor your open applications. I have created a simple Excel sheet where I track my applications. This sheet includes the date of application, email contact person/company, company name, company website and the outcome of the application.
Step 7: Create an Excel/word document to track your applications.
Send out as many applications as you like. The more companies you approach, the more likely you are to be selected for an introduction call/ interview. Don’t bet on one horse!
Conclusion
By now, I hope that you have realised that open applications are valuable for us Virtual Assistants looking to expand our career opportunities and businesses. By taking the initiative and submitting tailored applications to companies of interest, you unlock hidden opportunities, demonstrate your enthusiasm, and build a professional network.
Not only will it increase your chances of landing your next client, but it will also boost your confidence. By taking charge of who you are, your qualities, and your dreams for your business, you will create momentum.
This is so important for us Freelancers. We must continue empowering ourselves and adding value to our business.
To all you beautiful & brave souls out there; I would love for you to share your thoughts with me.
Please share your progress with me in the comments or any past experiences you have had with sending out open applications.I would love to hear from you!
I invite you to join me in a 30-min Virtual Coffee Moment where we can connect and talk about the VA world! You are not in this alone!
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