[Anonymous]

I have been searching for a job for some time and got no luck. I was planing to start with an easy position and then jumped into public. But I waited a long time and there is even not an easy one for me. So I am wondering if I can send out cold email enclosed with my resume to small-mid size firms? They have passed the busy season, will they start to look for new employees?

[MaLoTu]

@Ganondorf – I could not say that your approach will not work, I can only say that you will probably have better results meeting people face-to-face.

I definitely don't want to make it sound like I am misses personality (lol), but I have gotten nominations within firms and have been put on “the short list” of a few firms that I am truly interested in. I missed the last hiring rotation and because I am focused primarily on smaller/regional firms, they already have their work staff filled for this coming fall. I am really optimistic of getting into one of 3 firms that I have been actively pursuing. Recently, I expanded my search (based on a LI contact) to the larger firm I mentioned above. The only reason I considered going this route is because it is a larger firm with a small firm feel and I found that out by talking with the recruiter and luckily she agreed that it was a fit.

Reaching out to employees and recruiters is effective. When I reach out through LI or email (if I have met them previously and they gave it to me), I always ask to have a brief phone call to talk about the firm and how I might fit the culture, even if they do not have active listings. I have had a very warm response, I actually cannot recall a time that my request was turned down. I never send my resume unless they ask. If you are a culture fit then they will ask. They are also willing to go the extra mile for you because they have a good indication of who you are.

Sorry that rambled on! It is a lot harder to explain job search strategy in writing! I can clarify anything written above if you need =)

[Anonymous]

If you're going to cold-call, mail or in-person is much more noticeable. Emails disappear in a crowded inbox; an envelope will usually at least get opened if it's mail, or a in-person visit (drop the resume and cover letter off with receptionist) can also make more of an impression.

Definitely write a cover letter, and definitely be careful that everything in it is written properly and information is correct. (For example, don't list their address as 110 Cherry Way if it's really 110 Berry Way, don't spell their name incorrectly, etc.)

[Anonymous]

@MaLoTu

I am interested in your mentioning about the networking through LinkedIn. I have some connections in LI who are working in regional firms (the place that I want to start my career at, not big firms and not tiny firms either). But I do not know them at all. They just kindly accept my invitations, that is all. For this scenario, can I still reach out the people who just accept my invitations and do not know me at all?

Your opinion about job search strategy is very helpful and leads me to a new area that I did not think about before. Wish to hear more about your thought. Thank you.

[Anonymous]

@Lilla

Thank you for your advice. Any other opinion on how to search openings in small-mid sized firms?

[MaLoTu]

@cpatobe – Go ahead and message them through LI. Let them know that you are interested in their firm (you might want to say something that makes you sound like you researched the company and know a little about it) and ask if they would answer a couple questions for you. Or find out if your connection is linked with their firms' recruiter, ask them if they would mind introducing you to the recruiter (through email). Make sure to tell them why you are interested in their firm and make it as personal (but professional) as possible, what area you are interested in, and a little about your qualifications. Just the fact that you are looking for any position is not going to twist their arm!

If you are connected with the recruiter of a company, ask them for a brief phone call to discuss the company and how you might fit into the culture. If it is a random employee just try email.

I have invited people out to coffee and have been invited to lunches and for coffee. My approach is more about building a relationship. I actually keep regular contact with these recruiters and employees.

It is work. It is something that I put a lot energy into when I do it. I don't do this everyday. I am highly selective about where I apply and who I reach out to in order to minimize the time I expend.

[shiznit1822]

Anyone in Texas in search?

[Anonymous]

@shiznit1822

Are you now in job hunting or do you have an opening to share?

[Author]

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