14 Tips for Dropping off a Resume in Person

In the past, dropping off a resume in person was once a standard practice for anyone seeking a job. But now, technology has made it so most job applications are done online, which means less face-to-face interaction.

Still, there are times when going to the employer in person can be helpful.

In this article, we talk about when and how to do that, and we give you tips for dropping off your resume in person.

When to Consider Dropping off a Resume in Person

Even though lots of employers use Applicant Tracking Systems to hire, dropping off your resume in person can help you make a good first impression on the boss.

They might even talk to you when you visit.

Bringing your resume in person might be better for certain times or kinds of jobs. Like, a smaller company might like it more than a big company.

Also, if a business has a sign that says “Help Wanted” or “Now Hiring,” they might like you to drop off your resume.

Here are some jobs where you might consider dropping off your resume in person:

• Retail Jobs
• Restaurant Jobs
• Customer Service Jobs
• Entry-Level Jobs
  
  

Tips for Dropping off Your Resume in Person

Hand-delivering your resume needs careful thinking and planning. Here are 14 power tips:

1. Read the job posting

Thoroughly go through the job ad. Make sure you meet the basic requirements for the position and are interested in the job. Find out how they want applicants to get in touch.

2. Follow how the employer wants you to apply

Do what the job ad says to apply for the job. They might want you to use a special website or email your resume and a personal note to a certain person.

See if they talk about coming in person.

Some bosses might say not to bring your resume in person, and you should listen to them.

If the job ad doesn’t say they don’t take in-person resumes, you could still try. But it’s better to apply online first before you go in person.

For instance, if you’re applying for a job at a store and want to give your resume directly, you could say:

“Hi, I’m Samuel Jones. I filled out an online application for the sales manager job yesterday, and I wanted to come by today to show I’m really interested. Can I give you my resume to give to the hiring manager?”

3. Choose the right clothes for the job.

Make sure you look clean and neat. However, what you should wear when dropping off your resume in person might change depending on the job.

It’s important to match the company’s style, but it’s usually better to wear something fancier than too casual.

For instance:

If you’re applying to work at a personal care store, where employees usually wear jeans and a plain t-shirt with a company name tag, think about wearing nice pants or dark jeans without any rips, along with a button-up shirt. Or you could go with a dress and a cardigan.

4. Think about the right time to visit

Pick a day and time when the business and hiring manager will likely have more time for a conversation.

For instance, if you’re applying for a job at a coffee shop, you could go in the late afternoon or early evening instead of the morning. This shows you can think well, make good choices, and value their time.

5. Think about what you want to say before talking.

Get ready to introduce yourself and share your thoughts.

Figure out why you’re here, and decide the best way to say it politely and professionally.

Remember to be confident and respectful in your words.

Here are some examples of how you can introduce yourself:

You applied online earlier:

“Hi! I’m Jordan Smith. I noticed you’re looking for sales associates online. I applied already, but I wanted to bring my resume too. Can I speak with the hiring manager?”

You see a “Now Hiring” sign:

“Hello! I’m Joel Micha. I saw your job opening sign. I have my resume. Can you give it to the hiring manager?”

You’re not sure if they’re hiring:

“Hey there! I’m Robert Gik. I really like your restaurant. Are you hiring for bartenders? I have my resume if your manager needs it.”

6. Make your resume outstanding

Be sure to make your resume outstanding. Print it on strong paper, and make sure it’s not wrinkled, folded, or messy.

Think about bringing your resume in a folder or binder when you go.

7. Make sure your resume is strong

If you hand in your resume in person, you might need to give it to a receptionist or coworker, not the hiring boss.

Your resume should show your skills correctly. It should explain why you’re great for the job and have your best contact info.

8. Think about adding a cover letter

Put a cover letter with your resume to help introduce yourself and talk about your experiences.

Your cover letter can be brief, and it’s another chance to make a nice first impression. This could be really useful if you can’t meet the hiring manager and have to drop off your resume with someone else.

Find out: Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

9. Be nice to everyone

When you’re visiting, it’s vital to be polite to everyone you meet. Treat all the people you meet with the same kindness.

Look at them, talk clearly, and smile. If it’s okay, you can offer your hand to shake.

10. Use titles

Remember to use titles when talking to the manager or requesting a meeting.

It’s best to use their title along with their first and last name when asking for a meeting.

Only use their first name if they say it’s okay. For instance, if you know the hiring manager’s full name, you can ask to talk to them like this:

“Hi there! I’m Henchel Derrick, and I applied online for the stock associate job. I wanted to talk to the hiring manager about my resume and interest. Can I speak with Deborah Michael?”

Find out: Lying on Your Resume: Can You? 99% Do

11. Make your visit brief

When you visit, try to keep it short and focused. Have a clear reason for your visit, get what you need to get done, and show that you value their time.

Thank them before you leave.

If the manager wants to talk more, go along with their preference. Ask interesting questions about the job to show you’re interested.

Always thank them for spending extra time with you.

12. Get ready for an interview

Dropping off a resume in person may land you an interview right away.

Get ready by looking up info about the company, practicing common interview questions, and figuring out why you’d be a good match.

Plan some questions for the manager too. It’s a good idea to bring a list of references just in case, or a pen in case there’s more paperwork to fill out.

13. Get a business card

Ask for the hiring manager’s contact info, especially if you didn’t talk to them directly. Also, find out when it’s best to contact them.

14. Stay in touch with the hiring manager

Give the hiring manager a call or send an email to check in after you visited them. This can help them remember you and show that you’re really interested in the job.

Wait a little bit before you get in touch, maybe a few days, so they have time to look at what you shared.

Follow any rules they told you about, like waiting 48 hours or picking the right day to reach out.

But sometimes, you don’t need to wait. If they asked for more info from you, like references or your past work examples, it’s okay to message them the same day. And if you talked to them and dropped off your resume in person, it’s fine to send a follow-up email or a card right away.

What to do when an employer doesn’t want in-person job applications

Sometimes employers prefer you not to come in person to give your resume. It’s important to respect their wish.

You can still do things to make yourself stand out and connect with the hiring manager. If an employer asks you not to drop off your resume in person:

Use a cover letter:

If the online application lets you add more papers, think about a cover letter.

A good one can help you make a strong first impression, kind of like dropping off your resume in person.

It shows your experience, skills, and interest in the job, letting your personality show. A cover letter might also help you look better than other applicants if it was optional and you sent one.

Find out: Writing a Cover Letter? Double Check These 4 Things First

Send a message to the hiring manager:

After you fill out the application, think about sending them a separate message.

You might find their contact details on a job website or in the job posting itself. Keep your message short.

You can also attach your resume and/or a cover letter.

Here’s an example:

“Hello Lucas Sandal,

I’m getting in touch about the customer service job at Ruger Technologies. I finished applying online today, but I wanted to send you my resume and cover letter directly.

I’m really excited about this job and I think I have the right experience.

Thank you for your time. I’m here to talk more about the job whenever you’re free. Looking forward to hearing from you!

Sincerely,

Mary Sunel.”

Leverage your network:

Ask people you know if they work where you applied. You can also ask your friends to introduce you to someone who does.

Talk to them about how it’s like to work there and ask for their help. They might even give your resume to the boss or suggest you for the job.