An effective contact strategy takes research, initiative, and accuracy all important ingredients of a successful job search. Research is required to assemble your contact list.
Initiative is required to place calls and visit every single person on that list.
Accuracy is required because you will need to confirm the spelling and pronunciation of each person's name as well as his or her title. In each call, your goal is to get the name of an 'action person,' someone who can see you and then offer you a job. Unless you are looking for a job in human resources, the action person usually is not someone in personnel. Calling contacts for job leads and interviews makes most people quake in their boots. A 'warm call' to a friend, acquaintance, or referral can terrify those who feel humiliated asking people they know for help finding work.