In today's competitive job market, especially when looking for senior roles, traditional methods like job portals and online applications may no longer be enough to secure the positions you’re aiming for.
Senior positions are often filled before they even hit the job boards, and many decision-makers prefer to rely on trusted networks when hiring.
To get ahead of the competition, you need a more targeted, strategic approach that emphasizes networking and relationship-building.
Here’s a proven strategy you should consider:
1. Shortlist 25 Companies for the Roles You Want
Start by identifying the companies that you genuinely want to work for. Research their mission, values, and how your skills can fit within their growth trajectory. Focus on about 25 companies—this will give you a good pool to work with while still allowing for a personalized approach. Senior roles are often not widely advertised, so knowing your target companies is a crucial first step.
2. Identify the Hiring Manager
Next, figure out who the decision-makers are for the roles you're targeting. Often, this could be the department head, the hiring manager, or a senior leader responsible for the department you're interested in. If you’re unsure, use platforms like LinkedIn or the company's website to search for relevant people. You can also explore their team structure and figure out who might be the one evaluating applications for such roles.
3. Leverage Common Connections
Once you identify the right person, check if you have any common connections with them, or with other senior leaders at the company. LinkedIn makes this easy by showing mutual connections, which you can use to your advantage. If you find that you know someone who can provide an introduction, reach out to them for help.
4. Ask for an Introduction
Here’s where networking comes into play. Instead of submitting your resume through an impersonal job portal, ask your mutual connection to introduce you to the hiring manager or someone else senior within the company. A warm introduction through a trusted connection significantly increases your chances of having your resume noticed and considered. Personal recommendations and referrals are powerful tools for landing senior positions, and they help you bypass the sometimes cluttered pipeline of online applications.
Why Job Portals Alone Are Not Enough
Job portals and online applications can still be useful for specific positions, especially entry-level to mid-level roles. However, when it comes to senior management positions, these channels are often overcrowded and fail to create a direct connection with decision-makers. Here’s why:
Limited Visibility:Â Senior roles may not even make it to public job boards. Companies often prefer to fill them through their network or internal channels.
Overwhelming Competition:Â Hundreds of candidates may apply for a single position through online portals, and even qualified applicants can get lost in the volume.
No Relationship:Â Clicking "apply" doesn't offer the opportunity to build relationships, which are key when trying to land senior roles. Hiring managers often look for candidates they can trust, and trust is more likely built through personal introductions.
Final Thought: Invest in Relationships, Not Just Applications
The best job opportunities, especially for senior positions, are often found through relationships, not through online job postings. Building a solid professional network takes time, but it’s a worthwhile investment that pays dividends in your career. Focus on creating meaningful connections with decision-makers and leaders within your industry. This targeted, strategic approach will give you a competitive edge in today’s job market.
Remember, it’s not just about who you know—it’s about who knows you and trusts you.
Now, are you ready to take control of your job search strategy?
 Johncey George is a Leadership Coach helping professionals, especially the Quiet Introverted Professionals, accelerate their journey to Senior Leadership Roles helping them with unique strategies. https://www.coachjohncey.com
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