TARGETING A FIRM

Targeting a company or companies in fields that you want to work in is another way of approaching your job search. There are reams of information about companies on the web, in libraries, newspapers and on the news that can assist you to locate companies that can use your skills. In addition to locating these companies you might try some of the following techniques to get a resume into the right hands.

FIND AN INSIDER – Is certainly the easiest way to get a resume to where you want it.

How do you get to insiders? Check your network to see if anyone in it works in the company or knows someone who does. Also, visit the company about noon and see where employees eat lunch and make contact with these people to get the names of key insiders or to leave a resume. Check area coffee shops and cafes to see if you can contact key people having breakfast.

SEARCH TARGET COMPANY WEBSITES - You may find a posting or identify a name that you can contact within the firm.

SEARCH INTERNET WEBSITES - You may find a posting or information that will lead you to a key person inside the company.

COLD CALLS - Visit targeted firms and try to meet with hiring authorities or an HR manager

INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEWS - Try to get an appointment with a person working in the department where you want to work.

COLD TELEPHONE CALLS - Try to work through the phone network to a manager or worker in the department you are interested in. It does happen. We have had people successfully get to the right person for information on job openings or for an informational interview.

ATTEND CAREER FAIRS - When you see the company or companies listed as participants. It does happen. People do make the right contacts this way.

ATTEND NETWORKING GROUPS - See if group members have friends within the companies you are targeting.

MAIL A RESUME TO THE HR DIRECTOR OR DEPARTMENT HEAD - You will never know if you do not try it.

ATTEND ASSOCIATION EVENTS, MEETINGS ETC. WHERE WORKERS IN TARGET FIRMS MAY BE ATTENDING - Another way to meet key people.