Hiring managers—from human resources directors to your potential direct supervisor—are the people with whom you need to build relationships at your dream organizations. This is a tougher task than it used to be, with people working longer, harder hours to keep companies running with fewer staff and less money. But, as always, there are some tips and techniques you should keep in mind.
1. Come up with a novel idea. Heavily research the organization at which you would like to work—what they do, their audiences, etc. Figure out what they’ve done in the past to help accomplish their mission—what’s failed and what’s worked. Then, think up something different. It doesn’t have to be a game-changing idea that’s going to save hundreds of jobs and millions of dollars. But, take the time to think through the various facets of your idea and its feasibility.
When you feel confident sharing your idea, e-mail the hiring manager with a few nuggets to get him or her interested, and request a meeting to discuss your idea further. Bring any necessary supporting documents to this meeting, as well as your résumé and portfolio. And of course, once the meeting is over, follow-up!
2. Ping purposefully. “Coined by networking expert Keith Ferrazzi, 'pinging' refers to communicating in useful ways with new contacts so that you stay fresh in their minds,” said Christine Bolzan, CEO of Graduate Career Coaching. “Pings should be useful, informative and professional. It is a way to reach out without asking for anything in return. Forward an interesting article of common interest or simply notify the hiring manager of your change of address should you move. Stay top-of-mind.”
3. Become a follower. “Many companies and hiring managers are using Twitter as a means of identifying future employees and sharing information. Seek out recruiters on Twitter, and join their following. You may find opportunities to contribute information and demonstrate your qualifications. Any opportunity to converse with a hiring manager, even electronically, can benefit your candidacy,” said Bolzan.
4. Attend their events. “Attend any and all recruiting events that the company conducts and make sure that the human resources department knows who you are,” said Mark Grimshaw, vice president of client services at Accolo, Inc.
5. Attend your school’s events. While companies’ attendance at career fairs is down, be sure to attend the events your school hosts when your potential employers do make an appearance.
Comments
If you want to stand out, consider doing at least some of your "pinging" via regular mail. Some people are so swamped with email that a physical letter gets read before an email would.
Physical letters work particularly well for sending a clipping from a newspaper along with a note of your own.
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