Unconventional Techniques For Uncovering And Securing New Opportunities

25 different angles to approach your job search from. Barb Poole gives you some starting points to find those jobs that always seem to go to someone else.

1. If you see a classified ad that sounds really good for you, but it only lists a fax number and no company name, try to figure out the company by trying similar numbers. For example, if the fax number is 555-4589, try 555-4000 or 555-4500.  If this works, get the full company name and the correct contact person so you can send a more personalized letter and résumé.
2. Send your résumé in a Priority Mail envelope to serious job search prospects. It only costs around $3, but it will stand out and get you noticed.
3. Check the targeted company’s Web site; they may have postings there that aren’t listed elsewhere.
4. If you see a classified ad at a good company but for a different position, contact them anyway. If they are new in town (or even if they’re not), they may have other non-advertised openings.
5. Always have a personalized card with you in the event that you meet a good networking or employment prospect.
6. Always have a quick personal briefing rehearsed to speak to someone.
7. Network in network environments, such as a happy-hour restaurant/bar, an airport, class or a local business (Chamber etc.) or community event.
8. Network with your college alumni office. Many college graduates list their current employers with that office, and they may be a good source of leads, even out of state.
9. Most newspapers list all new companies that have applied for business licenses. Check that section and contact the ones that appear appealing to you.
10. Call your attorney and accountant, if you have one (or your family’s) and ask them if they can refer you to any companies or business contacts; perhaps they have a good business relationship that may be good for you to leverage.
11. Contact the Chamber of Commerce for information on new companies moving into the local area.
12. Don’t give up if you’ve had just one rejection from a company that you are targeting. You shouldn’t feel like you have truly contacted that company until you have contacted at least three different people there.
13. Join networking clubs and associations that will expose you to new business contacts. There now are a number of networking Web sites. Make sure you ascertain their legitimacy.
14. Ask your stockbroker for tips on which companies they identify as fast growing and good companies to grow with.
15. Make a list of everyone you know, and use them as a network source.
16. Put an endorsement portfolio together and mail it out with targeted résumés.
17. Employ a hiring-proposal strategy.
18. Post your résumé on the Internet, selecting news groups and bulletin boards that will readily accept it and match your industry and discipline.
19. Don’t forget to demonstrate passion and enthusiasm when you are meeting with people, interviewing with them, and networking through them.
20. Look your industry’s trade journals. Nearly all industries and disciplines have many such publications, and most have an advertising section in the back that lists potential openings with companies and recruiters.
21. Visit a job fair. Most don’t recruit for managerial positions, but you may discover a hot lead. If a company is recruiting, you should contact them directly for a possible fit.
22. Don’t overlook employment agencies. They may seem like a weak possibility, but they may uncover a hidden opportunity or serve as a source through which to network.
23. Look for companies that are promoting their products using a lot of advertising. Sales are probably going well, and they may be good hiring targets for you.
24. Call a prospective company and simply ask them who their recruiting firm is. If they have one, they’ll tell you, and then you can contact that firm to get in the door.
25. Contact all recruiters in town. Befriend them, and use them as a networking source if possible. Always thank them, to the point of sending them a small gift for helping you out. This will pay off in dividends in the future. Recruiters are always good contacts. BUT remember, they usually work for the employers not you; so treat them well!