Getting Your Dream Job Ahead Of Others

When searching for a job, most of us will start by applying to all the positions that are posted online. After all, if you send out enough resumes, you'll secure a job sooner or later, right? Not necessarily! Unfortunately, the jobs that are easy to find often receive hundreds or even thousands of applicants. The odds of beating all of them for the position may be against you.

In fact, approximately 50% of all available positions are filled before even making it to the public posting process. Someone could get the job before the rest of the world knows about it. Sometimes, these jobs go to someone already employed at the company or to a "friend of a friend." But if you know how to work the system, you can tap into this secret job market and reap the benefits! Follow these strategies to get your dream job!

1Networking Is The Key

Many of these secret jobs aren't posted anywhere, and only a few individuals even know that they exist. It might be a manager who knows that he's expanding his department in a few months. It could also be the sales representative whose boss told her that they're hiring more reps next quarter.

Meet as many people as possible within your industry, job category, or even a related career. Share your career goals with these individuals so they keep you in mind when an opportunity arises. The larger your network is, the more inside information and opportunities you have.

2Make Contact With Someone On The Inside

You're looking for the person in charge of hiring or someone who can make effective recommendations. For example, if you're a teacher, that might be the school board or principal. It might take a little digging to find the name of the contact person that you're looking for.

Check out the company website or call the establishment and ask. When you find the contact person, get in touch and let them know that you're looking for a position. You should solicit advice rather than directly ask for a job because that could put them on the defensive. You might end up with a great referral or on the top of the list when the next position becomes available.

3Leverage On LinkedIn

This is a great website for tracking down other professionals. Look up your high school friends and college roommates. One of your contacts might be able to help you out.

For example, your high school pal might be a CEO. She could pull some strings. Getting a reference from someone that knows you well can make all the difference.

4Contact Everyone You Know

Take the time to drop a line to everyone you know just to say hello. After the pleasantries are out of the way, let them know that you're looking for a job. The more people you talk to, the better are your odds of finding something.

5Contact People You Don't Know

After you've contacted those you know, the only people left are the random ones whose paths you cross each day. The person in front of you in line at the grocery store might know of the perfect job. You might want to be friendly and ask.

Just keep your eyes and ears open at all times. You might hear a conversation at the bank about someone hiring for a position you'd be perfect for. Let everyone that you encounter know that you're looking for a job.

There are many more jobs than just those you see posted on certain websites. Take the time to reach out to others and make as many job-related contacts as you can. Leave no stone unturned!

Many people have stated that looking for a job is hard work and is perhaps the toughest job that you'll ever have. But it's the work that pays off. Finding a well-paying job that you love is a very worthwhile pursuit because it can change your life for the better.

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