If you run a recruitment agency, you know how tough it can be to find new opportunities for great candidates — especially when the market slows down.

That’s why more smart agencies are leaning into a classic tactic that still works brilliantly today:
Speculative CVs.

When done right, a Spec CV isn’t just a random shot in the dark — it’s a powerful way to open doors, spark conversations, and land placements that wouldn’t have happened otherwise.

Here’s why Spec CVs matter — and how your agency can start using them more effectively.

First — What’s a Spec CV Exactly?

A Spec CV (short for Speculative Curriculum Vitae) is a CV you send even when there’s no advertised job opening.

Instead of waiting for a client to post a vacancy, you proactively introduce a standout candidate to a company that might not even know they’re looking yet.

It’s flipping the script:
You’re creating opportunities — not just responding to them.

Why Spec CVs Still Work (and Always Will)

Most jobs aren’t advertised publicly.
Some roles get filled before a company even thinks to post them.

Sending Spec CVs helps you:

• Tap into the hidden job market

• Get your candidates in front of decision-makers first

• Strengthen your relationship with clients (they'll appreciate the initiative)

Plus, in a competitive world, speed matters.
The best candidates don’t sit on the market for long — and Spec CVs get them seen before a vacancy even exists.

How to Use Spec CVs Without Wasting Time

It’s not about blasting random CVs to random inboxes.
Spec CVs work when you’re smart and targeted.

Here’s the real process:

1. Pick the Right Target Companies

Do your homework.
Identify companies that:

• Match your candidate’s skills and ambitions

• Are likely to need new people soon (based on growth, funding, expansion news, etc.)

• Have the right culture fit

Look beyond who’s hiring right now — focus on who should be hiring your candidate.

2. Customize the CV and Message

A good Spec CV is never generic.

Tweak the CV to highlight the skills that matter most to the target company.
And always include a short, punchy, personalized email or letter explaining:

• Why you're sending this candidate

• How they can solve a problem or add value

Keep it professional — but human.

3. Always Follow Up

After you send a Spec CV, don’t just hope for the best.

Send a polite follow-up email or make a quick call to check if the client received it and if there’s any interest.
Even if they don't have a role now, you’ve started a valuable conversation for the future.

Real Success Stories

Many recruitment agencies have massively boosted their placement numbers by getting serious about Spec CVs.

One agency reported increasing placements by nearly a third just by systematically sending well-targeted Spec CVs to businesses that weren't actively recruiting.

Another built a whole new client base — because companies appreciated the proactive approach, even when they didn’t hire immediately.

Bottom line:
It works — if you do it right.

Tools That Make Spec CV Campaigns Way Easier

Using a smart system like Chameleon-i can make your Spec CV process a lot faster and cleaner.

Here’s how it helps:

• Candidate and Client Databases:
  Easily match candidates to potential companies based on skills, industries, and hiring history.

• Automated Follow-Ups:
  Set reminders so you never forget to chase a Spec CV at the perfect time.

• Customizable Templates:
  Quickly create personalized CVs and cover emails — without starting from scratch every time.

• Campaign Analytics:
  Track which industries, candidates, and companies are responding best, so you can refine your approach.

In short:
You spend less time guessing — and more time generating real opportunities.

Final Thoughts: Why Your Agency Should Start Using Spec CVs Today

Spec CVs aren’t just a way to fill jobs.
They’re a way to build deeper client relationships, move faster than your competition, and create opportunities that didn’t even exist yesterday.

The agencies that thrive aren't the ones who sit and wait for jobs to come to them.
They’re the ones who create new chances for their candidates — and deliver real value to their clients before anyone else does.

So if you want to boost placements, strengthen your brand, and stay ahead —
start making Spec CVs a regular part of your strategy.

You’ll be surprised how much business is just waiting for you to start the conversation.