There’s no single guaranteed route into a job, but using a combination of job-search strategies (rather than one) is more likely to get you results. These methods are generally considered effective.
Find the unadvertised jobs
Once a vacancy arises, a hiring manager will typically either have someone in mind, or will ask around (inside the company and in their circle of contacts) before advertising externally. These “hidden” jobs (estimated to be 80% of all jobs) are filled through internal promotion, word of mouth and employee referral schemes. Getting in front of someone with hiring authority therefore greatly improves your chances of a job.
Apply for advertised jobs
More competition can mean lower success rates than for “hidden jobs”. However, replying to internet job postings can be successful for candidates matching the profile, and job boards themselves can give an excellent overview of hiring trends by sector or location.
Tip: Be selective in your applications, and make sure you meet most (if not all) the stated requirements. Follow the instructions to the letter, and keep track of your applications (noting deadlines or company information) so that you can follow up if necessary, as well as avoid duplicate applications.
Apply directly to companies
One of the most successful job-hunting strategies is to identify the companies which require your skills, get the name of the hiring manager and ask for an interview.
Hiring managers are usually on the lookout for new talent, and a well-written email outlining your interest in the company can be effective.
In Entry-level roles in PR, Matt Hammerton says: “If someone tweeted me/added me on LinkedIn/emailed me saying:
Hi Matt, I think you work with some awesome clients and I’d love to work on your RWE power renewables. I think it would be great to do X, Y and Z – I would be more likely to give them a chance and invite them in for a chat…”
Try this approach with smaller or niche companies. Recent research from the University of Nottingham found that small businesses employing less than 100 workers account for 65% of new jobs created in an average year.
Tip: Research thoroughly to link your skills to the company’s needs. Ask for an informational interview to find out more about working for the organisation.
Go in through the back door
Take on internships and temporary contracts. Once you’re in a company, being a known quantity gives you an immediate advantage over external candidates.
Network
The more people you know, the better your chances of hearing about a vacancy. Join professional associations, attend careers fairs, and keep in contact with university tutors and careers services.
Use LinkedIn and Twitter to find people within your targeted companies. Build relationships and establish a professional presence by participating in conversations and commenting on blogs.
Tip: Make sure you’re easy to find with an updated, keyword-rich profile.
