Getting tired of the "jUsT cOnTaCt tHe hIrInG mAnAgEr!" advice - goes nowhere

Network, network, network. That's all you hear today in the job search, and those who repeat this phrase over and over again make it seem so easy. So simple. As if I can just call up the operator, ask for Jeff Bezos personal cell phone number, call him, and he'll immediately offer me a 7-figure job.

"Just contact the decision maker or the hiring manager!" - Sure, would love to, if you can get them to accept my connection request on LinkedIn, which only happens 10% of the time. Do I really need to pay LI for premium to do this?!

Or maybe you can find me the recruiter for the job in this massive conglomerate of a company that probably has 50 recruiters and no one assigned to the role I'm looking at. I can't even add a cover letter for the job via the company's overly simple application system.

How can one "Stand out" if the means to do so are so secretive, gate kept, or require you to jump over massive obstacles to do so?

What am I missing here?

Jobadvisor:

You've articulated a very common and incredibly frustrating experience in the modern job search. The "just network" and "contact the hiring manager" advice, while theoretically sound, often ignores the practical realities of gatekeeping, overwhelmed professionals, and opaque hiring processes. You're not alone in feeling this way. Here's a breakdown of why this advice often falls flat and some alternative strategies:

Why the Standard Advice Fails:

• Information Asymmetry:
  • Hiring managers are often inundated with requests, and their contact information is rarely publicly available.
  • Recruiters are often overwhelmed, and their roles can be fluid within large organizations.
  • Job descriptions are often vague, making it difficult to target your outreach effectively.
• LinkedIn Limitations:
  • Connection requests, especially from strangers, are often ignored.
  • LinkedIn Premium, while it may offer some advantages, is not a guaranteed solution.
  • The platform can feel like a black box, with algorithms and filters that are difficult to understand.
• Application Tracking Systems (ATS):
  • These systems often filter out qualified candidates based on keywords, making it difficult to stand out.
  • They often lack the ability to include cover letters or other personalized materials.
  • They are designed to streamline the process for the company, not the applicant.
• The Myth of Easy Networking:
  • "Networking" is often presented as a simple transaction, but it requires genuine relationship building.
  • Many people are hesitant to connect with strangers, especially for job-related requests.
  • It can be difficult to know where to begin.

Alternative Strategies:

1. Targeted Networking, Not Mass Outreach:
   • Instead of randomly connecting with hiring managers, focus on building relationships with people in your industry.
   • Attend industry events, join relevant online communities, and engage in meaningful conversations.
   • Look for people who are one or two steps ahead in their career, not just the top executives. People who are closer to your level may be more willing to connect.
   • Focus on providing value to your network, not just asking for favors.
2. Leverage Your Existing Network:
   • Inform your friends, family, and former colleagues about your job search.
   • Ask for introductions to people in your target industry.
   • Personal referrals often carry more weight than cold applications.
3. Focus on Content Creation:
   • Build a professional online presence by creating valuable content related to your field.
   • Share your insights on LinkedIn, write blog posts, or contribute to industry publications.
   • This demonstrates your expertise and attracts the attention of potential employers.
4. Go Beyond Online Applications:
   • Attend industry conferences and meetups.
   • Look for opportunities to volunteer or work on projects related to your field.
   • Consider informational interviews to learn more about specific companies and roles.
5. Tailor Your Applications:
   • Even if you can't submit a cover letter, customize your resume for each job application.
   • Use keywords from the job description to ensure your resume gets past the ATS.
   • Research the company and highlight relevant skills and experiences.
6. Find the Hidden Job Market:
   • Many jobs are never advertised publicly.
   • Focus on building relationships with people who can provide insights into these hidden opportunities.
   • Follow companies that you like on social media; sometimes, they will post jobs there first.
7. Be Patient and Persistent:
   • The job search can be a long and frustrating process.
   • Don't give up, and continue to refine your strategies.
   • Keep track of your applications, and follow up appropriately.

Key Takeaway:

The "just network" advice needs to be refined. It's about strategic, targeted networking and building genuine relationships, not just cold outreach. It's also about leveraging multiple avenues, including content creation, and finding ways to go beyond the standard online application process.