Application Sent, Now What? 5 Moves to Catch the Hiring Manager's Eye

Imagine having the perfect qualifications for a job but never getting the chance to prove it. That's the reality for countless job seekers who rely solely on online applications. It's time to change the game. In today's newsletter, I’m sharing how I helped my husband navigate this challenge of transitioning from entrepreneurship to the non-profit world. What we learned in the process was eye-opening, and I'm excited to share our comprehensive strategy that goes far beyond clicking "submit."

The Traditional Approach vs. The Proactive Strategy

Traditionally, job seekers fill out online applications and wait. And wait. And wait some more. But in a world where hundreds of resumes flood hiring managers' inboxes daily, this passive approach rarely yields results. Especially in the current job market when there are AI tools like LazyApply that are mass applying to hundreds of roles on a job seeker’s behalf. Yes, it saves the job seeker time, but it overwhelms the hiring manager's inbox with tons of applications from unqualified candidates. Making it harder for qualified candidates like you to be seen. 

Enter the proactive strategy – or what I like to call the "squeaky wheel" method. This approach involves taking deliberate steps to stand out, make connections, and demonstrate your value beyond the online application.

Behind the Scenes of My Husband’s Search

Let me take you behind the scenes of my husband's job search. He identified his dream company—where he felt his skills and values aligned perfectly. The journey began with a grueling two-hour online application, but we knew that was just the beginning.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Proactive Job Search Strategy

1. Mastering the Online Application

While the online application is just one piece of the puzzle, it's still crucial. My husband spent two hours filling out every field, ensuring each response was tailored to the job description. He highlighted specific experiences that matched their requirements and used language that mirrored the company's values.

Pro Tip: Before submitting, have someone else review your application for errors and clarity.

2. Leveraging LinkedIn

LinkedIn became our secret weapon. We identified and reached out to three key contacts:

1. The recruiter for the position

2. The hiring manager

3. The CEO

For each, we crafted personalized connection requests. Here's an example of the message sent to the CEO:

"Dear [CEO's Name],

I've long admired [Company Name]'s commitment to [specific company value or achievement]. As a [profession] with a passion for [relevant industry/skill], I'd be honored to connect and learn more about the community-building work happening at [Company Name].

Thank you for your consideration, 

[Name]"

Surprisingly, the CEO accepted the connection request, opening up a valuable communication channel.

Join me for a LinkedIn Live session on August 13th, during which I'll share more about these exact strategies and open up Q&A time to answer questions about your job search challenges. Find out more and RSVP here: https://www.linkedin.com/events/aftertheapplication-5stepstoget7223667276846149632/theater/

3. Advanced Email Strategies

Once we had names, we needed contact information. We used two tools:

1. Mailscoop: This tool helps find email addresses associated with a company domain.

2. MailTester: This verifies that an email address is active and receiving messages.

With the recruiter's email in hand, we crafted a compelling message:

"Dear [Recruiter's Name],

I recently submitted an online application for the [Position Name] role at [Company Name] (Application ID: [if available]).

I'm reaching out directly because I'm particularly excited about this opportunity. [Company Name]'s commitment to [specific company value] aligns perfectly with my professional goals and experience.

In my current role at [Current Company], I [specific achievement related to the new role]. I believe this experience, combined with my skills in [relevant skills], would allow me to make significant contributions to your team.

I've attached my resume and cover letter for your convenience. I welcome the opportunity to discuss how my background aligns with your needs.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best regards, 

[Name]"

We sent similar, tailored messages to the hiring manager as well.

4. The Power of Physical Mail

I favor old-fashioned snail mail because no one uses it. It’s a simple and affordable way to stand out when everyone else chooses the online option. We purchased high-quality resume paper and sent a package to the CEO. It included:

1. A handwritten thank-you note for accepting the LinkedIn connection

2. A printed copy of my husband's resume and cover letter

3. A brief intro in his cover letter explaining why he's passionate about the company's mission.

This old-school approach helps you stand out in a sea of emails and digital communications.

No, it’s not overkill. No, it’s not too aggressive. Yes, it works.

5. Harnessing Social Media

We didn't stop at LinkedIn. My husband updated his other social media profiles to reflect his interest in the company. He began engaging with the company's posts, offering thoughtful comments and insights. This activity helps create multiple touchpoints and demonstrates genuine interest in the company's work.

6. Networking and Informational Interviews

Finally, we reached out to our network to find anyone with connections to the company. We set up two informational interviews with current employees. These conversations provided invaluable insights into the company culture and helped my husband refine his approach.

Why This Strategy Works

This multi-pronged approach works for several reasons:

1. It demonstrates initiative and genuine interest in the company.

2. It creates multiple touchpoints, increasing the chances of making a lasting impression.

3. It bypasses the limitations of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

4. It shows your communication skills and professionalism.

5. It provides opportunities to highlight qualifications beyond the resume.

Potential Challenges and How to Overcome Them

You might worry about coming across as pushy. The key is to be persistent but respectful. Space out your communications and always provide value in your interactions. If you don't receive a response, wait at least a week before following up.

Measuring Success

Success isn't just about getting the job offer. Consider these indicators:

• Responses to your outreach efforts

• Invitations to interviews (informational or formal)

• Increased LinkedIn profile views from company employees

• Any direct feedback, even if it's not an immediate job offer

Real-Life Success Stories

This approach has worked for many of my clients. For example:

• Sarah, a marketing professional, landed an interview at a top tech firm after her thoughtful comments on the CEO's LinkedIn posts caught his attention.

• Michael, a finance analyst, secured his dream job after an informational interview became a formal job offer.

• Jennifer, a UX designer, was hired after her physical portfolio, sent via mail, impressed the creative director.

Adapting the Strategy for Different Industries

While this approach can work across industries, some tweaks might be necessary:

• Creative fields: Include links to your online portfolio in your outreach

• Tech Industry: Showcase relevant projects on GitHub or other platforms

• Academia: Highlight publications or research relevant to the institution

The Importance of Persistence and Patience

Job searching is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay motivated by celebrating small wins, like making a new connection or securing an informational interview.

The job search landscape has evolved, and so should your approach. By going beyond the online application and actively demonstrating your value, you significantly increase your chances of landing your dream job. Remember, you're not just a resume – you're a professional with unique experiences and insights to offer.

What to Do Next

Ready to ramp up your job search? Here's what you can do right now:

1. Identify your dream company (or a list of your top ten).

2. Research key contacts on LinkedIn (recruiter, hiring manager, decision-maker)

3. Craft your personalized outreach messages.

4. Update your resume and cover letter.

5. Engage with the company on social media - especially LinkedIn.

Need expert guidance? Book a 25-minute consultation to explore how our executive resume writing service can help you stand out. Book here: https://greatresumesfast.com/schedule.

Remember, your dream job is out there. With persistence, creativity, and a diversified job search strategy, you can land it. 

Blessings in your job search journey!

-Jessica

PS. Don't forget to join me for a LinkedIn Live session on August 13th, during which I'll share more about these exact strategies and open up Q&A time to answer questions about your job search challenges. Find out more and RSVP here: https://www.linkedin.com/events/aftertheapplication-5stepstoget7223667276846149632/theater/

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