One Great Job Search Strategy (hint: it’s not rocket science or even new!)

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Here’s one job-search strategy I wish more people would use – it’s not new or revolutionary, but so many don’t do it. And it can separate you from all the noise out there and the hundreds of applications a hiring manager receives.

Stop just applying for jobs & start talking to people.

It sounds so obvious that I’m a bit reluctant to mention it to my clients. But I still see talented, experienced professionals spending hours submitting application after application – and then waiting for a response that very often doesn’t come.

There’s another step that can make a difference. When you find a role you’re genuinely interested in, do a little detective work. Find the hiring manager, someone on the team, or a person in your network connected to the company. (And there’s lots of ways you can easily do that)

Then reach out – start a conversation.

Introduce yourself. Mention the role. Share briefly why it caught your attention and what you could bring to it. Is there a need or problem that the Organization has that you can help solve?  (It really helps if you have done your homework and can show your knowledge about the Org.)

Keep it short, personal and most importantly, human.

Because your goal isn’t to ask a stranger to get you a job – it’s to start building a relationship so you can  stop being just another résumé in a very crowded applicant pool (that they may not even see!)

A thoughtful message can show initiative, genuine interest and confidence – and it gives someone a reason to connect your name with the application that they now pull out of their big pile. And maybe even move it to the top of the pile!

Apply for the job for sure, but don’t stop there. A job search isn’t only about submitting applications – it’s about creating conversations & relationships before you get into the room (and to help you get into the room!).

If everything else you are doing isn’t working – try this and see if it helps. If they don’t reply back, nicely sent them a note again – people are busy. But they absolutely appreciate the effort of someone trying to stand out and be seen – if it saves them time, even better.

And sometimes one conversation is all you need to get noticed.