5 Tips for a successful speculative application

Imagine this: you really want to work at a specific hotel, but currently, there are no vacancies that match your experience. Instead of waiting for the perfect vacancy, you can send a speculative application. According to Career Tiger, about 20% of vacancies are filled through speculative applications. Moreover, not all vacancies are published online; some are filled internally or through the company's own network. With a well-executed speculative application, you can turn a 'no' into a 'yes'.

Utilize your network

Networking is one of the most effective methods to find a new job. Research on LinkedIn if you know someone at the hotel of your choice. Ask if this person can introduce you to the department head, or mention this person in your cover letter.

Address your speculative application to the right person

A speculative application not directed to the right person often ends up directly in the trash. Find out via the hotel's website or LinkedIn who is responsible for the department you want to work in. If this information is not available online, call the hotel for the necessary contact details.

Contact first

In addition to finding the right contact person, it's wise to check if the hotel is open to speculative applications. Briefly explain your ambitions and ask who you should speak to about a possible application. Referencing this conversation in your cover letter can be helpful.

Research the organization

A strong motivation for why you want to work at the hotel can make an impression. Explain why you want to work there and what you can bring to the hotel. Show that you have taken the effort to get to know the company, for example, by linking your motivation to the core values of the hotel.

Follow up after your application

After a week or two, make a phone call to confirm that your application has been received. Ask for the person to whom you have addressed the application. If they currently do not have a position, ask if you may contact them again in six months. However, be careful not to come across as too pushy, as that can seem desperate.

Speculative application example

Are you looking for a job in hospitality that perfectly matches your ambitions and skills? Let our speculative application example guide you in impressing your future employer. With this letter as a foundation, you can effectively demonstrate why you are the ideal candidate for the position. Use the example to highlight your unique qualities and motivation, and convince your potential employer that you are the best choice for their team.

Subject: Speculative Application for the Position of [Position]

Dear [Name HR Manager],

I visited your website with great interest and observed the commitment of your team and the quality of the service in your hospitality business. Although there is currently no vacancy for a [Position] on your site, I am so enthusiastic about the opportunity to work at your company that I have decided to send a speculative application.

As you can see in my attached CV, I have successfully completed the MBO Hospitality course at the Secondary Hotel School in Amsterdam. My internships at various renowned hospitality businesses and my experience as a hospitality employee after my education, where I was responsible for preparing and serving orders, have given me a solid foundation in this sector.

My ambition goes beyond daily tasks; I aspire to a leadership role within a leading hospitality business like yours. My years of experience have resulted in excellent communication skills and a deep knowledge of products and wines, especially in the higher segment. I am entrepreneurial, ambitious, resilient, and known for my result-oriented approach and perseverance. My flexible availability, including during early mornings, evenings, and weekends, makes me a suitable candidate for the dynamic nature of hospitality.

I am convinced that my skills and experiences can be a valuable addition to your team. I would be pleased to share my enthusiasm and vision for the position of hospitality employee with you in a personal conversation.

I look forward to your response and the opportunity to contribute to the success of your company.

Kind regards,

[Your Name]

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