How Professionals Can Land Those Super Secret Job Connections

Connections, connections, connections.

Sometimes, all you need is that super secret person to tell an employer you’re great in order to land a job. After all, the majority of jobs these days are filled by referrals. But how can you land these connections in the first place? And what do you have to do to make them think twice about you professionally?

Here are four ways to find the super secret connections that can help you secure a job:

Go to alumni events

Your alma mater is a connection goldmine. Not only are there going to be professionals from your field present, you also have a shared connection: Your university. Alums wants to help other alums, and if you play your cards right, you’ll find an “in” somewhere.

Tip: Do your research and check out the signup list beforehand. This will help you to see who will be there, how you can approach these professionals, and what skills you can show off to really “wow” them.

Use social networking

As I’m sure you’re aware, social networking can be a highly beneficial resource in your job search. However, beyond self-promotion or sending out links, you can also form bonds with those super secret connections. For example, if you notice that your target organization is tweeting praise to a thought leader, try to join in in the conversation. You can also add your thoughts to a Facebook thread if someone you particularly admire is commenting. Both of these assert your knowledge and illustrate to an outsider why you’re an admirable professional.

Tip: Participate in Twitter chats related to the job search. These are hotspots for industry thought leaders and experts who are probably more than willing to help you out once a relationship is established.

Join professional organizations

As with alumni events, professional organizations are home to industry pros who know the ins and outs of your space. Once you join these clubs or associations, you’ll be able to connect with industry giants, giving you the chance to pick their brains, find out who they know, and quite possibly get your foot in the door at a company where you share a common bond.

Tip: Be forthcoming and volunteer for services or events. This shows your tenacity for the industry and broadens your network — both of which increase your chances at finding job connections.

Be creative

Sometimes, it just takes some out-of-the-box thinking to get noticed. Industry professionals and thought leaders like creativity, especially if that creativity will help a partner in their organizational endeavors. Whether you create a video filled with testimonials, send an infographic resume, or are bold enough to show up to a potential connection’s office with a box of donuts, the more innovative you are, the higher the possibility that someone will help you out.

Tip: Don’t just create a video or an infographic resume. Campaign it! Use your established network, social platforms, career center, and even your family to do the talking for you. If your name is out there in a bold way, someone in your industry will take notice.

Connections are everything these days, and if you’re strategic enough, you can land one that will really assist you in your job search. The above tips can help you to not only expand your own job search, but expand your connection base in a positive way.

What do you think? What are some other ways professionals can land those super secret job connections?

Photo Courtesy of Raquel Camargo; Flickr