Navigating the Hidden Job Market
How do you tap into the hidden job market? First, list all the
jobs you've always wanted to do and some industries you'd like
to work in. Next, list some companies you may have heard of in
those industries. Now rank these jobs according to their appeal
to you, remembering, of course, to use a measure of realism.
Make a list of friends, family, former schoolmates or former
colleagues who may have any connection with the jobs, industries
or companies you've identified above. Get their phone numbers.
(Remember, even if your contacts are in different jobs now, if
they once worked in industries or careers you're interested in,
these people can provide valuable contacts.)
Next, call the people on your list. Don't be shy. Be pleasant,
friendly and undemanding. Keep your voice confident.
It helps to say you're considering a move into a new industry,
not that you're desperately looking for a new job. Don't tell
people how long you've been looking for a job or out of work.
Always be upbeat. Look for an opportunity to tell a joke or be
lighthearted. Nothing helps bond like laughter.
Even if a person doesn't seem to be much help, remember to ask
each person if they know of anyone else in that industry you
should call. Ask if they have that person's phone number. Always
ask if they have any advice for you. Most people love to give
advice. You don't have to take their advice, but something they
say may be helpful.
Remember, what you are doing is creating your own job bank network,
a collection of sources who are going to help you get your dream
job. And if the thought of making these calls makes you nervous,
remember this: Many of your contacts will be glad to help you
get a job, thinking that you may then be in a position to turn
around and help them eventually. That's why a good way to end
one of these calls is by saying "Thanks again for all your help.
Let me know if I can ever return the favor."
Let's practice.
Maybe you want to get into the entertainment field. You've heard
from some of your former classmates at UCLA that Sally Smith,
a person who also went to UCLA, has been working at Fox in Los
Angeles for more than a year. You don't know her well, but you
have mutual friends and may have met before.
Let's make the call:
"Hello, Sally? This is (your name), We met at UCLA. I'm a friend
of (name of mutual acquaintance). Are you swamped right now?
I'm living in Los Angeles these days (or I'm interested in moving
to Los Angeles) and wanted to ask you a quick question."
There are two ways this conversation can go from here:
- No. 1:
Sally: "Oh yes, I remember you. Actually, I am
swamped. Can you call me back?" You: "Sure thing. When is a
good time?"
- No. 2:
Sally: "Oh yes, I remember you. Actually, now
is great." With that door opener, here are some possible questions
you could ask:
You: "Wonderful. Well, I am very interested in
getting into the entertainment field and am thinking about
Fox. How is it working there?"
You: "Is the company in an expansion mode? I'm
especially interested in getting involved in the television
side. Who are the best people to talk to there?"
(Don't ask for spellings, addresses or titles. You can call
the company and get those later.)
You: "Do you hear much about the other studios?
Are they expanding?"
You: "I know this is a tough business to get
into. Do you have any suggestions?"
You: (Only if the conversation is going well) "Well,
thanks so much. I know you are very busy, so I don't want to
keep you on the line. How are the next few weeks for you? I'd
love to take you to breakfast or lunch and hear more about
your job at Fox! We could catch up on UCLA news."
You: "Thanks again so much for your help. Please
let me know if I can ever return the favor. Here's my number
in case anything comes up."
Remember, these types of conversations will seem tough at first,
but will get easier. Always follow up with a short and sweet
thank-you letter. And, don't get discouraged if some calls
don't go well. As with anything, you have to start with small
steps.
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