The term “unsolicited application” makes it clear what this kind of application involves. You apply of your own accord and not as a reaction to a specific job opening. For applicants, it presents an opportunity to get their foot in the door for jobs that are often only circulated internally or filled with the help of headhunters. Companies often try to make the process as simple as possible, and first look at the candidates that have already put themselves forward.
This is a lot more common than you might think. Especially more challenging positions, that require specialist knowledge in very specific fields, are increasingly being filled this way. Generally speaking, we can assume that the higher up the corporate ladder, the greater the possibility that the position will be not advertised publicly. Companies try to keep the number of unqualified applicants as low as possible, so that they reach the most suited candidates from the get go. In this way, they not only diminish their workload but also save costs.
Unsolicited applications are sent with hopes of finding the job of your dreams. At the same time, the probability of being rejected is also far higher than with a normal application. That’s why an unsolicited application requires particularly thorough preparation. It has to convince HR straight away, and show them that the applicant is a perfect fit for their company.