ANSWERING BLIND ADS

We'll talk about how to answer an Ad when it is addressed to a Federal Box Number IE., "Send resume to Box 1123 Chicago, IL. 55555". This is commonly called a BLIND AD.

All you have to do is go to the phonebook and look up the branch post office with that zip code and get the phone number. Call the number and whoever answers the phone ask them who is renting that box number (1123). Legally they have to tell you who it is. The only time they won't tell you is when the company who is renting that box, rents it for 365 days a year. We do this every Monday morning and always find out who the company is behind the Box number.

Now that you know who the company is you want to research them either looking up their web page or using the Harris Directory, or one like it, that are in all the libraries. The directories will tell you what the company manufactures, how long they have been in business, what their size is and it will also give you all the managers names in the company.

With this type of info your cover letter would start something like this:

Dear ------,

In researching your company I understand that you're a long established, midsize firm manufacturing xyz products and that prompted me to write to you. The directory tells you all this info.

Your second paragraph is a short summary of your experience trying to relate it to their product or industry.

The third paragraph of your cover letter you state that you will call them in a few days to see if they received your paperwork.