Navigating the job market can be daunting, especially when trying to connect with hiring managers who are actively seeking candidates. But why bother trying to track down and get the attention of hiring managers who don’t even have open roles? Shouldn’t you just wait for an interesting job to come up and then apply?
Making a connection with people you might like to work for gives them a preview of your experience and builds trust. If they’re already familiar with you and your background, you’ll be the first one they’ll consider when they have new openings. Also remember that most jobs are filled by referrals. So creating a network of interesting hiring managers can work to your advantage when one of them has an open job requisition.
Whether you’re currently employed, between jobs, or looking to re-enter the workforce, this quick, three-step process can help you effectively reach the right hiring managers on LinkedIn.
HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT HIRING MANAGERS
Step 1: Use LinkedIn’s Exact Match Search
Go to www.LinkedIn.com and use the LinkedIn search bar to find job posts related to your target position.
Here’s how:
- Enter your desired job title in the search bar.
- Type the word ‘AND’ followed by ‘hiring’. For example: supply chain AND hiring
- Run the search to generate results.
This technique leverages boolean search logic to pinpoint posts that mention hiring for your specific job title.
Step 2: Filter for Posts
Once you have your search results:
- Click on the “Posts” filter in the top bar menu; it will turn green. This will display posts from individuals who have mentioned hiring for your desired role.
- Select about ten individuals from these posts to start networking with. You can either direct-message them or engage with their content by liking or commenting.
Step 3: Refine Your Search for Target Companies
To narrow down your search even further:
- Click on “All filters” in the top bar menu.
- Find the “Author company” filter and type in your target companies.
This refines your list to posts from people hiring for your desired position at your preferred companies.
CRAFTING YOUR CONNECTION MESSAGE
When sending a message to a hiring manager, use a personalized message to stand out. Here’s a template to help you get started:
“Hi [Name], I hope you’re well.
I wanted to learn more about the mid-level PM role you posted about. I’m currently a [Your Current Job] with [Years] years of PM experience in the tech industry, including roles at [Company 1] and [Company 2].
I’m passionate about [Your Passion] and would love to show you how I can create value for your health technology team, just like I delivered this project [insert hyperlink] for my last employer.
I hope to hear from you soon and am happy to provide a resume!
Thank you.”
This message highlights your experience, passion, and a specific example of your work, making it more likely to catch the hiring manager’s attention.
ADDITIONAL TIPS
Create a database of contacts. Keeping track of your connections and interactions using a spreadsheet or a simple CRM program will help you manage your job search efficiently.
Explore company blogs and employee posts. Corporate blogs and employees often share job openings before they are officially listed, providing you with early opportunities to apply.
MANAGER OUTREACH = BETTER ODDS
If you follow these steps, you can strategically connect with hiring managers on LinkedIn, substantially increasing your chances of landing your next great job opportunity.
Sindho Channa is a recruiter, speaker, career coach and career matchmaker for mid to executive level supply chain and procurement job seekers. She’s the founder of the Supply Chain Careers Community and has extensive experience hiring expats, with more than 1400 placements in 32+ countries. You can reach her on LinkedIn.
