Don’t Be Another Applicant— Make a Connection
How many applications have you sent out? 10? 50? 100? 200+? The quest to find a job can be frustrating and even depressing. Many jobs receive more than 200 applications for a single role. So how do you stand out in this virtual mountain of resumes?
You’ve likely heard the importance of “knowing someone.” Those fortunate enough to have parents or friends with an inside connection can certainly have an advantage in the process. But if you are creative, and willing to put in the work, you can breakthrough the masses and connect with hiring managers directly and creatively?
Submitting the application should not always be your final or only step. If you really want the job, here are 15 creative ideas to get you noticed.
Each of the ideas below include three sections: Why It Works, Research/Resources, and a practical Example to get you started. Please note the examples are meant merely to serve as starting point. To be effective and make a real connection with hiring managers, you will need to use your own language, thoughts and personality! With these strategies, you can make memorable connections, show genuine interest, and increase your chances of landing a role that excites you.
1. Leverage Recent Company News to Personalize Your Outreach
- Why It Works: Mentioning a recent accomplishment or project shows that you’re well-informed and genuinely interested.
- Research/Resources: Set up Google Alerts for the company, follow their LinkedIn page, and read recent press releases on their website.
- Example: “Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name], Congratulations on [Company’s Project, Award, or Milestone you can hyperlink to the article]! I’m excited to see how your team continues to lead in [industry/field] and would love to explore ways I could contribute to this momentum as a part of [Company Name].”
2. Incorporate a Quote from a Company Leader
- Why It Works: Citing a leader’s words demonstrates you’ve researched the company and resonate with its values.
- Research/Resources: Read interviews with the company’s CEO or key leaders on platforms like LinkedIn, YouTube, or business news sites.
- Example: “Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name], As [CEO’s Name] recently shared, ‘[Insert Quote/Hyperlink].’ I believe this is exactly why [Compnay’s Name] is poised for explosive growth, and I could not be more excited to contribute to the journey ahead
3. Create a Value-Based Pitch Deck or Infographic
- Why It Works: A visually engaging pitch showcases your creativity and the value you bring.
- Research/Resources: Use tools like Canva or PowerPoint to design a brief, visually appealing deck. Look at examples of professional pitch decks for inspiration.
- Example: Design a one-pager highlighting your skills, achievements, and specific ideas on how you can contribute to their ongoing projects.
4. Request a Shadow Day
- Why It Works: Offering to shadow someone shows eagerness to learn and gives insight into the role.
- Research/Resources: Check if the company has a shadowing or internship program and explore LinkedIn for current employees who might be open to your request Reather than reaching out directly to connect with the hiring manager, you may want to indentify a team member who is an alumni of your University or has a local connection to you. .Learn more about Shadow Days here.
- Example: “Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name], I’m a [Student/recent graduate of X University],exploring careers in [industry] and admire [Company’s work]. Would it be possible to shadow someone on your team for a few hours? I’d love to learn more about the role and your team’s approach.”
5. Reach Out with a “What I Admire About Your Work” Note
- Why It Works: Complimenting the hiring manager’s work shows genuine interest and respect.
- Research/Resources: Look for their recent projects or case studies on the company website, LinkedIn, or news articles.
- Example: “Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name], I recently saw [specific project] and am inspired by the way your team approached it. I’d love to bring my skills to similar projects at [Company Name].”
6. Share Industry Insights in a Thoughtful Message
- Why It Works: Sharing insights shows industry knowledge and initiative.
- Research/Resources: Use industry associations and blogs to find articles on recent trends or innovations. Do some real research and develop a point of view regarding an industry issue or trend
- Example: “Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name], I read an article on [industry trend] that I thought might be relevant to [Company’s work]. I believe [Fill in your thoughts/point of view]. I’d love to connect and discuss how my skills could support your team’s innovative projects.”
7. Send a Handwritten Note
- Why It Works: A handwritten note adds a personal touch and will certainly distinguish you. Be sensitive to timing (you may want to consider hand delivering the note!)
- Research/Resources: Check the company’s website and social media to learn more about their culture and values before selecting a professional gift.
- Example: Send a note, following up on your cover letter and expressing admiration for the company’s mission and your desire to contribute to their goals.
8. Make a Sample Contribution or Mini Project Proposal
- Why It Works: Proposing a small, relevant project demonstrates initiative. This also gives you a chance to demonstrate your skills in a meaningful way.
- Research/Resources: Look into recent company campaigns or projects and tailor a proposal that fits the company’s goals.
- Example: For a social media role, create a mock series of posts that align with the company’s branding, briefly outlining your idea in your outreach message.
9. Offer to Volunteer for a Company Event or Initiative
- Why It Works: Volunteering shows commitment to the company’s values and mission.
- Research/Resources: Check if the company participates in or hosts events in the community, then reach out to offer help.
- Example: “Hi [Hiring Manager or Event Contact], I noticed [Company Name] is involved in [community initiative]. I am a big fan of [the cause or company initiative] and woul;d love to volunteer or assist in any way.”
10. Send a Personalized Video Message
- Why It Works: A video message lets you show personality and enthusiasm.
- Research/Resources: LinkedIn now supports video messaging. Record a concise (under one minute) introduction about why you’re interested in the company.
- Example: In the video, introduce yourself, mention why you admire the company, and express interest in joining their team.
11. Use Curated Questions to Request an Informational Interview
- Why It Works: Asking for advice creates a more relaxed, open connection.In this case, you may want to consider a variety of leaders at the organization.
- Research/Resources: Find professional interview questions or informational interview templates online to prepare.
- Example: “Hi [Hiring Manageror other organizational leader], I admire [Company’s values/ recent initiatives, etc] and am exploring careers in [field]. Would you be open to a brief chat?”
12. Engage Through a Virtual Coffee Chat
- Why It Works: A “virtual coffee” can offer a more informal way to connect.
- Research/Resources: Use LinkedIn or email to propose a 15-minute “coffee chat” to get career advice and insights.
- Example: “Hi [Hiring Manager], I’m passionate about [industry] and admire [Company’s work]. Would you be open to a quick virtual coffee chat?”
13. Participate in or Comment on a Company’s Webinar or Online Event
- Why It Works: Webinars give you a chance to connect and show interest.This will also be extremely helpful in providing you with an informed point of view to ask questions and discuss the business in an interview. In addition to the hiring manager, you could also potentially reach out to the leaders who gave the webinar.
- Research/Resources: Follow the company on social media for updates on upcoming webinars or events, and register to attend.
- Example: “Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name], I attended [Company Webinar] and found the discussion on [topic] fascinating. I’d love to connect.”
14. Build Connections with a Small-Scale Industry Report
- Why It Works: Sharing a report shows analytical abilities and understanding of market trends.
- Research/Resources: Use platforms like Statista or LinkedIn to gather insights, then create a brief report.
- Example: “Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name], I recently put together a brief analysis on [trend in industry] I thought you might find useful. I’d love to share it and discuss any insights you have.”
15. Express Interest in an Internship or Rotational Program
- Why It Works: If you’re flexible and eager, suggesting an internship or rotational role shows you’re open to learning.
- Research/Resources: Look into internship programs listed on the company’s website or job boards.
- Example: “Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name], I’m very interested in starting my career with [Company Name]. If there’s an internship opportunity, I’d love to explore that.”
Final Thoughts: Each of these creative outreach methods goes beyond a typical application. By being thoughtful and proactive, you can build connections, gain insights, and ultimately land Your First Real Job. Good luck, and remember: persistence and personalization can make all the difference!
Did you connect with the hiring manager of your current organization in an unconventional way? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
