How to get a job with your dream employer

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I was a panelist at a job search workshop yesterday. There were lots of interesting questions during the session and then in the one-on-ones afterwards.

One theme stood out – people trying to get into a particular company.

Three people asked about that. “I have picked my dream company. I have applied to postings and left messages for the hiring managers but no one has called me back. What else can I do?”

My response? "Nothing."

Here’s why:

  1. There is a fine line between between follow up and stalking. Repeated emails do not reinforce your message. They make it seem like you have nothing else to do.
  2. You might think you have the perfect skill set for a role, but there are many forces at play in each hiring decision. You might not be aware of issues on the existing team, upcoming changes in the division or a host of other issues. These will affect the sorts of candidates that they want to spend time interviewing.
  3. There might be things in your background that they do not see as a fit. This may seem arbitrary and it is. It is their company. They already work there.

So what can you do?

  1. Get specific about why it is your dream company. Find more companies with the same qualities and apply.
  2. Keep target number one in your radar. Talk with people in other areas of the company. Keep track of what’s happening with their products and services. Other opportunities will come up – usually when you are not looking.
  3. Keep your information updated in their system. Just do this quietly – no fanfare needed. Corporate recruiters will look at their own database first and you want to make sure your information is fresh, particularly your contact details.

Finding a job is not like buying shoes. You cannot pop in to a store, fall in love with a loafer, try on a few sizes and walk out with a perfect fit. It is a journey that requires patience, perseverance and just a little creativity.