by Kevin Donlin - Guaranteed Resumes - Click for Info

Sara in Minneapolis writes: "I know networking is a great way to crack the'hidden' job market, but I'm having trouble connecting with people in myindustry. Can you help?"

Sara, you're not alone!

Here are four ways to crack the hidden job market, by networking and othermethods.

1) Start searching where you are.
If you're currently employed, why not ask your manager about the possibility ofcreating a new job that suits you better? Or, ask your co-workers to see if anyjob functions were created for them. You might be pleasantly surprised by whatyou find!

2) Apply directly to a company that appeals to you.
This is so obvious that few people do it ... which means less competition foryou.

First, identify five or six companies you'd like to work for and call each toget the name and mailing address of the person who hires people like you.

Then, research these firms online. Familiarize yourself with their products,markets and competitors. Most importantly, try to come up with at least onesuggestion for how your target companies can increase revenues or solve aproblem.

Next, send a personalized letter and resume to each employer. Follow up withanother letter or an e-mail if you don't hear anything in 7-10 days. Don't giveup until you get a definite answer!

3) Use your personal network.
This is still the most effective (and under-used) job search technique, in myview.

If your network is smaller than you'd like, think of it as a yeast cell, withthe power to expand from its tiny origin until it produces something wonderful.In this case, a new job!

Tell everyone you know that you're looking for a job. Call or e-mail everysingle person in your address book. Here's the magic question -- at the end ofevery conversation, ask: "Do you know anyone else I should be talkingto?" This is how you expand your network by leaps and bounds.

Eventually, someone should be able to put you in touch with a decision maker whocan hire you.

Even former employers can help. If you parted on good terms with your last boss,he or she might be able to refer you to hiring managers in other companies.

4) Network with other job hunters.
Many cities have job clubs or support groups where people can meet, network andshare tips. Don't forget the Internet -- there are loads of great Web sites withmessage boards and chat rooms devoted to networking.

Best of luck to you!

Kevin Donlin is President of Guaranteed Resumes.

Since 1996, he and his team have provided resumes, cover letters and online job-search assistance to clients in all 50 states and 23 countries. Kevin has been interviewed by USA Today, CBS MarketWatch, The Wall Street Journal's National Business Employment Weekly, CBS Radio, and many others.

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