Are speculative CVs a thing of the past? I’ve heard some recruiters say that the era of sending out speculative CVs is over, but I respectfully disagree.
While the traditional “spray and pray” approach to submitting speculative CVs can indeed feel useless, there are exceptions:
- If you’re aware of a company that’s actively hiring for a role
- If you know someone who would be a perfect fit
- If you can succinctly articulate this in a brief message
In such cases, the only real downside is the associated fee.
Sure, this downside can be significant—particularly if the hiring manager hasn’t had success filling the position—but it’s entirely possible they would be open to reviewing a well-matched speculative CV.
Many of my clients have mentioned they would consider a speculative CV if it aligns perfectly with what they’re looking for.
What’s your take? Do you believe speculative CVs are obsolete?
RCadmin
I think spec CVs aren’t necessarily dead, but their effectiveness has certainly evolved. You raise some valid points about the scenarios where they can still be beneficial. When tailored and sent with clear context—such as knowing that a company is actively hiring or when you have a strong connection to the candidate—they can stand out.
However, the landscape has shifted significantly with the rise of applicant tracking systems and more structured recruitment processes. Recruiters often prioritize applications that come through official channels, making unsolicited CVs less visible.
That said, your approach of sending a spec CV with a compelling message and context can be impactful, especially if it aligns perfectly with a company’s needs. If a hiring manager is indeed struggling to fill a position, they might appreciate a proactive suggestion.
Ultimately, the key is to avoid the “spray and pray” method. Focus on quality over quantity, and leverage networking opportunities to make your spec CVs more effective. They may not be the primary strategy anymore, but they can still have a place in the right circumstances!