Despite this part of the market being, Human
Resources employees deal with as many as 120-150
calls from hopeful applicants on a weekly basis.
So if you are having trouble finding the right fit,
enter the hidden market and increase your chances
significantly in finding what you are looking for.
Correct Location
Once you know what you want, identify and narrow
down your target organizations and/or industries.
Be thorough and systematic when searching through
your own network and your networks’ networks to
discover informal routes to employers that can help
in achieving your goals.
Understand yourself – Receive feedback from previous
employment or simply asking friends and colleagues.
They can help you prepare what you are selling as
well as how you sell yourself.
Understand the target organization – Use the
internet, published documentation, word of mouth and
even LinkedIn’s summary company information to learn
more about the desired company. Prepare some well
thought out questions to demonstrate your interest,
but don’t forget to also listen to the answers.
Understand your contact – Search for a personal
profile on the company website or even LinkedIn.
Become interested in them as a person, and not just
an employee of the company you would like to work
in.
Correct Time
The organization you desire may not have the
opportunity you wanted but attempt to build and
maintain a relationship with the employer. Be
gracious in thanking for the time and ask for a
referral – leave the door open.
Watch for relevant industry events to remain
visible, keep up your professional knowledge and
maintain your profile. Write blogs or contribute to
professional discussion groups.
Finally, stay updated in the events of the industry
and organization. Think about how you can add value
and position yourself as part of the solution.
Correct Impression
Remember, first impressions are critical. Keep your
marketing clear and simple, but include who you are,
your strengths, most recent position or role, key
achievements you are proud of, and what you wish to
do next.
Be warm and professional; address your contact by
name. Think positively and start with the right
frame of mind – leave the impression that you can
definitely add value to their company.
Even if the connection between you and the
organization goes no further than the first meeting,
take time after you separate to evaluate what
happened and what you have gained through the
experience.
