To get a job through internet job boards you have to overcome some huge obstacles. One problem is that you apply for a job that isn’t. The job doesn’t exist for you. The job was posted because Human Resources (HR) said they had to post it. They have an internal candidate. You haven’t got a prayer, but you don’t know it.
The job isn’t? You’ll never know. Your only chance is to get someone to personally submit you to the hiring manager. Then he may actually consider you for a job he has decided to fill internally. You’ll have a chance.
Before you apply for any job ask yourself, “Do I know anyone who works there?” Then ask, “Do I know anyone who knows someone who works there?” The best way to past all the screeners is to have someone personally drop your resume on the manager’s desk.
If you are really a fit for the job your friend, acquaintance or contact will be very happy to hand in your resume. They get brownie points and sometimes bonuses for it.
How about recruiters that didn’t place the ad? If they really know the hiring manager and can get you past HR, use them. But be careful. Ask them who they will be submitting you to. Follow up with them. Make sure they really submit you. A well connected recruiter can make all the difference in the world. A recruiter who knows nothing about the company can actually hurt you. I’m a recruiter. I’ve seen it work both ways. Ask your recruiter what they will do in addition to submitting you to HR.
So the first thing to do is to figure out who can help you bypass HR and all the screeners. Then ask them for their help.
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Something To Do Today
When you decide to apply for a job, make a list of the people you know who already work there and a list of people who know someone who works there. Ask for their help.