Description
In today's competitive job market, simply submitting a resume is often not enough to stand out. To increase your chances of landing your dream job, it's crucial to connect with decision-makers before you even apply. Building these relationships can give you insights into the company, make your application more memorable, and sometimes even bypass the traditional hiring process. Here’s how you can strategically connect with decision-makers before applying for your next job.
1. Identify the Right Decision Makers
The first step is to identify who the decision-makers are. Typically, these are the hiring managers, department heads, or senior executives within the company. Use LinkedIn, the company's website, or industry publications to find out who these individuals are. Look for people in positions like "Director of [Department]," "VP of [Function]," or "Head of [Team]."
Pro Tip: Don't overlook mid-level managers or team leads who may also have a say in the hiring process. They can be easier to approach and just as influential.
2. Leverage Your Network
Once you’ve identified the decision-makers, see if you have any mutual connections who can introduce you. A warm introduction from someone they know and trust can significantly increase your chances of a positive response. Reach out to your network, whether on LinkedIn or through personal contacts, to see if anyone can facilitate this connection.
Pro Tip: When asking for an introduction, be clear about your intentions and why you’re interested in the company. This makes it easier for your contact to advocate on your behalf.
3. Engage with Their Content
Many decision-makers share content on platforms like LinkedIn or write blogs, articles, or industry insights. Engage with their content by liking, commenting, or sharing it. Provide thoughtful comments that add value to the conversation. This helps you get on their radar in a non-intrusive way and demonstrates your genuine interest in the industry and the company.
Pro Tip: Don’t just leave generic comments like "Great post!" Instead, offer a perspective, ask a follow-up question, or share how their content resonated with your own experiences.
4. Attend Industry Events and Webinars
Decision-makers often participate in industry events, conferences, and webinars. Attending these events gives you an opportunity to connect with them in a more relaxed, professional environment. If it's a virtual event, engage in the chat, ask questions, or follow up afterward with a LinkedIn message referencing the event.
Pro Tip: When you meet decision-makers at events, have a short elevator pitch ready that clearly explains who you are, what you do, and why you're interested in their company.
5. Send a Thoughtful, Personalized Message
After engaging with their content or meeting them at an event, send a personalized message. Reference your previous interaction or something specific about the company that interests you. Be genuine and concise, and avoid making it all about a job inquiry right away. Focus on building a relationship first.
Pro Tip: A good structure for your message is to start with a compliment or reference to your recent interaction, mention a mutual interest, and then express your desire to learn more about the company or industry.
Example:
Hi [Name],
I recently attended your webinar on [Topic] and found your insights on [specific point] particularly enlightening. As someone with a background in [your field], I’m keen to learn more about [related topic or company initiative]. If you have time, I’d love to connect and hear more about your work at [Company].
Best regards,
[Your Name]
6. Offer Value Before Asking for Anything
Before asking for an informational interview or a job referral, consider offering value. This could be in the form of sharing an article you think they might find interesting, providing a solution to a problem they mentioned, or even connecting them with someone in your network who could be useful to them.
Pro Tip: Position yourself as a resource, not just someone looking for a favor. This can help build a more balanced, reciprocal relationship.
7. Request an Informational Interview
After you've established some rapport, consider asking for an informational interview. This is a meeting where you can learn more about the company, the industry, and the decision-maker’s experiences. It’s not a job interview, but it can lead to one. During the conversation, ask insightful questions and express your enthusiasm for the company.
Pro Tip: Always send a thank-you note after an informational interview, reiterating your interest in the company and how much you appreciated their time and insights.
8. Stay in Touch
Building relationships with decision-makers is not a one-time effort. Stay in touch by sending occasional updates about your professional achievements, commenting on their new posts, or sharing industry news that might interest them. The goal is to keep the relationship warm so that when a relevant position opens up, they might think of you first.
Pro Tip: Use a simple spreadsheet or CRM tool to track your interactions and remind yourself to follow up periodically.
Conclusion
Connecting with decision-makers before applying for a job can significantly boost your chances of success. It requires a strategic approach, patience, and persistence, but the effort can pay off by getting your application noticed, opening doors that might otherwise be closed, and ultimately landing you the job. By identifying the right people, engaging genuinely, offering value, and maintaining the relationship, you can set yourself apart from other candidates and build a strong network that will support your career growth in the long run.