A good portion of your job search should be spent creating a multi-channel search strategy and identifying some of the target companies you would love to work for. It is important that you take time outside of simply hitting submit on those online applications to craft a successful job search.
The Hidden Job Market
For a long time, the hidden job market was something people talked about as an important part of every job search. In 2013, The Wall Street Journal found that up to 80% of jobs were never advertised, either online or anywhere else. Do we still have to worry about this in today’s online-obsessed world, with resources like social media, Indeed, LinkedIn, etc? You bet!
The majority of employers will begin looking for talent internally or within their immediate network. The fact is, employers want to hire candidates that they know, like, and trust. Not to mention, it’s incredibly expensive and time consuming to go out into the marketplace and solicit applications from a variety of perfect strangers. Your network, connections, contacts, and relationships with key decision makers will remain the best possible strategy to get in fast and first. This is not the time to sit back in your pajamas and click ‘submit’ over and over again.
Traditional vs. Targeted Search Strategy
Traditional Search Strategy
The traditional job search strategy is position driven, meaning you are accessing opportunities through advertised job postings. The advantage of the traditional approach is that you know a company is hiring, because well, there’s a job posting, The disadvantage is that everyone else knows this too. You will be 1 of many trying to compete.
It’s important to keep track of the applications you submit and keep great records of follow up correspondence and any contact information you receive.
Targeted Search Strategy
The targeted approach is a great way to balance the traditional approach. It is company driven. It’s not that you won’t ever fill out online job applications, but in a targeted approach, you will also access opportunities by connecting with key decision makers. The advantage of the targeted approach is that – once you find them – there are many more opportunities and openings at your fingertips. And what’s the catch? The targeted job search approach will take you out of your comfort zone, and possibly your time frame. Building a great network and showing interest inside a targeted company doesn’t happen overnight.
To pursue a targeted approach, you’re going to have to get off the couch and jump into action. First, identify some specific companies that you would have an interest in working for. When you’re contemplating target industries or companies, some considerations might include their geographic location, their industry sector, their reputation, and definitely any established relationships that you already have, either as a consumer or business peer.
If I think that ‘XYZ Firm’ is going to be the great next step for me, based upon a web article that I read last month,, then I’m going to go ahead and research that company further online, I’m going to take a look at their website, at their social media platforms, any recent press releases, so that I can get a firm understanding for what that company might look like, if I were to step inside. At this point for a targeted strategy, I need not worry whether or not they have an open advertised position. There may be something existing that they’re just preparing to post, or perhaps they’re going to hire soon for a job I would be great for.
Balance is Key
Your job search strategy will be unique to you. It’s important to remember to strike a balance between both the traditional and targeted strategies. Yes, it is likely you will need to apply to multiple jobs and go after established open positions, but in doing so, remember to utilize a targeted approach by researching companies and making the right connections.
