In this article we are going to talk about the principles of finding a job at the highest level.

We are assuming that you have already figured out the specific career path or job title you are interested in. Otherwise, see “how to pick a career” using a scientific methodology. You may also want to review our articles on “emerging career trends”.

Next, if you are not interested in a high level overview but want detailed instructions, you may want to see these resources:

How to Find a Job – The Best Way

At its core, finding a job is a numbers game. It’s all about getting in front of the right people and asking them to hire you.

The more doors you knock on, the higher your chances of finding the right opportunity. But it’s not just about blindly casting a wide net; it’s about being strategic and targeted in your approach.

You Have To Chase Every Source!

Unless you are connected into elite circles and can get any job you want with an unsolicited phone call, you need to become a job hunter.

Being a job hunter is a mindset. It’s much like being a hunter in nature, just like a wild cat: Eyes open for every opportunity, alert and attentive, stalking the target, ready to pounce… It’s not just one action, it’s a series of actions taken over a period of time possessed by a single mindset.

In other words, hunting for a job is not about just doing one thing – like sending in job applications at job boards. It’s about doing **everything**. It’s about chasing every avenue available to you.

You need to go after every one of the sources we listed below simultaneously, to the best degree you can, in order to get the kind of job you really want.

Remember: Finding a job is not a linear process. It requires adaptability, resilience, and a willingness to explore different avenues. You need to increase your chances of finding across every plausible source, so that you can find a position that not only pays the bills but also fulfills your professional aspirations.

Your Job Sources

Here are your job sources in order of priority. 

  1. Leverage Your Network: At the highest level, how to get a job boils down to who you know. Research suggests that up to 70-80% of professional positions are never even advertised, and are filled through networking rather than traditional job applications. (Source: CNBC) Professionals in elite circles never need to do anything other than asking their network for referrals. Alternatively, you can use the Warm Application Process for the same level of access.
  2. Direct Contact Employers: Reach out directly to companies you’re interested in working for. Research potential employers and identify key decision-makers or hiring managers. Craft personalized emails or cover letters expressing your interest in their organization and inquire about potential job openings or opportunities. Even if they don’t have current vacancies, your enthusiasm could leave a lasting impression and lead to future opportunities. (For best results, use the Warm Application Process)
  3. Utilize Headhunters: Good recruiters and headhunters are professionals who connect you with important people, expanding who you know (for a percentage of your salary, of course, but the good ones are totally worth it). Research reputable agencies, headhunters and recruiters that align with your career goals and submit your resume to them to get the ball rolling.
  4. Use Job Search Platforms: This is the most common source for the majority of job seekers. These platforms aggregate job postings from various companies, making it convenient to find relevant opportunities. The problem with using job search platforms is the lack of personal connection. While they can be productive for some job seekers, it is a mistake to use job search platforms as the only source for job opportunities
  5. Attend Job Fairs: Job fairs and career expos are opportunities to connect with potential employers face-to-face. While you will usually only end up meeting with HR gatekeepers or low-level personnel, the ability to make a personal connection might be worth it. Research participating companies in advance and prepare a brief elevator pitch highlighting your skills and interests.
  6. Use Social Media: Leverage the power of social media platforms like LinkedIn to expand your professional network (increase who you know). If you are actively seeking a job, don’t forget to optimize your profile with relevant keywords and accomplishments, and actively engage with industry professionals by joining relevant groups and participating in discussions.
  7. Engage Staffing Agencies: Consider registering with staffing agencies or temping agencies that place candidates in temporary or contract positions. These agencies can connect you with opportunities (increasing who you know), which may in turn lead to full-time employment. The point of using agencies isn’t to get your ideal job. The point is to generate the contacts or to get a stepping stone position.

Hopefully, you’re getting the pattern…

It’s all about who you know and expanding who you know. And for best results, it pays to be humble. None of these actions are too much work or not worth the effort. All seven sources have been known to create careers leading to six, seven and even eight figure salaries.

Using the seven sources, you can discover open positions as well as positions that are about to open. If you do your networking right, you may even be able to get the positions specifically created for you and be invited to apply. (See Launch Your Career for details) 

What To Do When You Contact Sources

When reaching out to various job sources, your real objective is to get in touch with a person. That person becomes “who you know”. (Remember: You are connecting with a person, not a company, even though they work for a company. It’s people that do the hiring, not companies.)

Your approach should be strategic and purposeful. Here’s how to make the most out of your interactions with people who are your job sources:

  1. Gather Intelligence:
    • Prepare specific questions to gather insights about the company, industry trends, and potential job opportunities.
    • Ask about the company’s culture, values, and team dynamics. This way you can assess if it aligns with your preferences.
    • Inquire about upcoming projects, challenges, or initiatives the company is undertaking, as this may reveal unadvertised job openings or future opportunities.
    • Seek advice on how to tailor your skills and experiences to fit the company’s needs and stand out as a candidate. What specific skills and experiences do they need or value? How do people really get hired at this firm? What would make you a candidate they couldn’t refuse?
    • See how to prepare for informational interviews.
    • Pro Tip: Even when using job boards, top professionals will treat their first contact with the company as an intelligence gathering step rather than just an interview. 
  2. Ask for a Job:
    • If you’ve identified a specific job opening or opportunity within the company, express your interest. Ask them how to apply.
    • Be concise and direct in expressing your interest, but also convey enthusiasm and eagerness to contribute to the team’s success.
    • Whenever you’re asking for a job, regardless of the communication platform (email, text, phone, video, in person, etc.), you want to highlight relevant experiences and qualifications and put your best foot forward. (See Language of Value for details)
    • Note: This step is implied when you use job boards.
  3. Request a Referral:
    • If your application fails, or if asking for a job is not appropriate for a specific source, you can still politely ask for a referral.
    • If the person you’re contacting isn’t directly involved in hiring but is well-connected within the industry, ask for a referral.
    • Explain your career goals and the type of roles you’re interested in, and ask if they know of any opportunities or can introduce you to someone who might.

By approaching each interaction with a clear purpose and thoughtful preparation, you can make meaningful connections, gather valuable insights, and increase your chances of securing a job or referral that moves your career forward.

Next Steps

Now that you’ve got the basics, it’s time to attend to the details. When it comes to finding a job, the details matter.

Crafting compelling resumes and cover letters tailored to each opportunity is a bare minimum. So is preparing for interviews by learning the answers to important interview questions and practicing your responses. 

But that’s just the beginning…

From learning how to dress for best psychological impact to mastering eye contact, from hypnotic language patterns to A/B testing the “profile” section on your resume – there’s a vast  array of details that need to be mastered to get the best jobs in the modern economy.

With the advent of globalization, as well as the emerging AI technologies, finding a job is not what it used to be…  

Simply put, the bar is significantly higher.

In this cutthroat environment, you’ll need every competitive edge you can get your hands on.