PHONE CALLS 
Follow-up Calls:
Be nice to the person you are talking to. If you are, the person is more likely to be helpful. Learn their name and call them by their name and ask them for their help. Below is some ways in which you can handle calls to the employer.
If you get through to Mr. Sams or his assistant, you may say something like “My name is _____. I sent you a letter and resume last week regarding possible job opportunities in your department”. I am just following up to see if you received it. (Pause for answer). Could I possibly schedule some time to see you next week?”
A typical response may be, “we don’t have openings now” or “you should take a look at our job listings on the website.”
You may then say something like “Although you don’t have anything right now, would you please keep my resume and give me a call if an opportunity opens up?” "If it is OK, can I follow-up with you later?" If he or she says yes, ask when would be good time to call back.
Or, you may say something like “Although you don’t have any jobs right now, do you have any time to see me? I would like to learn more about your company.”
Cold Calls:
Cold calling may be one of the most difficult ways to network for job seekers. Calling a stranger and asking them about possible job opportunities is easier than you think! Talk to the hiring manager for the company or department you want to work for. Don’t just ask if they have any job openings. Instead, briefly tell them that you are job searching and networking, and tell them a little about yourself (accomplishments experience, skills, abilities, education). Then ask if they know of any job opportunities in your field or any that may be coming up in the future. Here is an example:
“Hello, my name is Jackie Smith, I am seeking employment and networking with organizations in the area. I have an Associate degree as a legal secretary and have worked in the field for the past two years. I have excellent real estate closing skills. Do you have any openings?"
Ask if they know anybody else who may be hiring. Ask if you can send them a resume (include a cover letter). Also, don’t miss this opportunity to see if you can go in to talk about the company and future job opportunities. If they say yes, use the Informational Interview guidelines on this website.
You may simply be referred to the Human Resource office or their online job board. Don’t let this discourage you. Call other departments or companies until you get someone who is helpful. There is a fine line between being persistent and a pest so be tactful and use your best judgment when cold calling.
Voice Messages:
Employers don’t like unprofessional voice messages. Now is not the time to play your favorite song on the answering machine or voice mail. Use an answering machine message and/or voice mail message with a simple and short professional message.
If others will be answering your phone like your husband and children, then ask them to handle calls professionally and take good messages (keep pen, paper, and resume by the phone).
Remember to turn TVs, radio, or stereo down or off when answering calls. Make sure that family and friends are also quite. If you are having a football party, go to a quite place in the house to answer your phone.
Check phone messages daily and return phone calls as soon as possible. If you are out of town, check your messages regularly.
For information on interview follow-up call, see Interview section.