2 ways to stretch when applying to advertised jobs

When you see an advertised job opportunity that you feel to be a fit (you have 8 out of the 10 qualifications matching their requirements), apply. This is true for jobs posted online (company website, job board, etc.) or elsewhere. Then take it further if in your control. Here are two possibilities.

  • Ask for referrals. It makes sense to ask for referrals when you’re applying to an advertised position. Dig for someone you know who is an internal employee of your target company, and be somewhat brazen in reaching out to them.  Someone at that company might have gone to school with you, worked with you before at a different company, belong to a mutual association, play golf with you, and so on. And if you’re really daring, you can even contact someone you don’t know if you’re able to get their email. Why would this be okay? Because many employers offer incentive rewards to employees who refer new hires. Talent likes to work with other good talent. If that person thinks you’re a fit, there is no reason to assume he or she won’t want to help you. If that person would have a concern, it would be that you’re not going to be a fit. Your email might go something like this:

Hello Mr. Brown—

My name is Alice Lance, and I’ll be applying to your company for the Call Center Manager opening. I’m hoping you might refer me for the position. I’ve attached my resume and included it in the body of this email. I think I can contribute a great deal in this role. You know what it takes to do well at ABC Company in this type of position. If you agree I appear qualified, your opinion will make a difference. Whether I’m selected or not, I promise to be an enthusiastic, considerate and well prepared candidate. Naturally, I’d be pleased to answer any questions you may have. You may contact me by phone, email or LinkedIn as listed on my resume.

The job code is CCM2042/GB3942. Let me know if I may use your name. Thanks in advance for your help.

Alice Lance

Reality check is that most will ignore it. No harm done. The gist is that you might get that stranger’s referral. And getting a referral is so, so much better than just blasting your resume into a database to make it through cyberspace hoops.

  • Reach out to the decision maker. If you’re able to find out who’s in charge of hiring, send an email  to that person, particularly if you have a referral or other mutual connection.  Say something like:

I applied for [position] online. I’m sure you have many applicants. I did want to reach out to let you know that I’m very interested in the position and [name of company]. I know your time is valuable. My resume and letter are attached, if you have a moment to take a look at them. Please get back to me if you have any questions. Of course I’m hoping to get to the next step in interviewing if you feel I’m a fit.

If you can, also send a LinkedIn message mentioning the email. You have not been too pushy. You may be just the type of candidate this hiring authority is looking for—at least at first pass. And if you’re on the radar at this stage, well, you’ve got an edge of course. If not, nothing lost. The caveat would be if the company’s given specific instructions on no emails. Then follow directions.

I would never tell you to arrogantly sidestep the process.  Comply with instructions for applying. Then stretch it whenever you can. Front and back door.

Photo: simonglucas

 

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