How Companies Find Employees

Contrary to what most job-seekers might think, many companies identify or vet candidates outside of traditional or formal methods of hiring. Often, hiring decisions are made considering input from colleagues who know the applicant or based on past networking connections. Consider these strategies to stay one step ahead of the competition, ordered from most effective to least effective.

Develop relationships with employees at companies you wish to work for in the future
Intern or obtain a part-time job with the company
Ask to job shadow or for an informational interview
Attend company information sessions
Talk to employees at career events

Find a mentor in the field who may have contacts and connections
Search LinkedIn for second-degree connections and ask for recommendations
Ensure your mentor and connections know you’re looking for a job in your field or with a specific company
Ask for advice and assistance; do not assume your connections will do work for you

Stay up to date with job postings
Tailor your resume to incorporate specific field information, skills needed for a
specific job, and company values as much as possible
Write a specific cover letter showcasing your interests as to not be a generic candidate

Not as useful as you may anticipate
Redirect effort into asking for informational interviews or job shadowing opportunities, thus creating a better relationship with the company
Include a strong cover letter if you feel strongly about the opportunity

Existing Relationships

Recommendations from Friends/Colleagues

Online Job Postings

Unsolicited Resumes