A lot of job seekers get caught up looking at the 5% of jobs that are openly listed online or in the newspaper and pay no attention to the other 95% of jobs hidden in the “hidden job” market. Especially today with the economy in flux it is very important that you take a pro-active approach to your job search. You can’t afford to restrict your search to the so named “open jobs.”
You can dramatically improve your job search success relation by accessing the profitable “hidden job” market. One underutilized tool for doing this is the target correspondence. Start by researching organizations that you have identified as being of interest because you think they require your expertise, they meet your qualification as an ideal company, or both!
As you investigate the company, ask yourself, “How can I enhance the organization? How can I improve sales, improve employee preservation, increase productivity, or improve processes?” Your goal is to expose specific challenges challenging the organization and recognize ways that your expertise would positively affect the company. As well to visiting their website and conducting an online search consider talking with current workers and/or customers. And certainly, part of your research includes uncovering the name of the top officer who has the power to hire you or recommend you for hire. It is upon this person that your letter is written and sent. When in hesitation, start at the top!
Your reason in writing a target letter is to gain access to and impress decision-makers who you else would not meet. Your one-page correspondence outlines the results of your research, highlights your expertise, and shows your ability to impact the corporation in a specific high priority field.
Open your correspondence with a sincere compliment about the company. Everyone likes to hear the good news about their organization! Then, briefly discuss the results of your research- three or four challenges you’ve exposed that are facing the business and which you have the skills to solve. Focus on solving their most pressing problems because that is what matters to them!
Wrap up the letter with a suggestion to meet to explore in greater detail how you may have a positive impact on their commerce. Sign your name and after that, add a P.S. that teases them with a “what’s in it for them” benefit, for example, “P.S. One idea my investigation uncovered has the potential to increase front office competence by as much as 15%.”
Do not embed a resume! Remember, you are an expert problem-solver, not a seeker for jobs in Ohio. (For more data on selling yourself as an expert you may try reading articles on jobs in Ohio search.
Follow up with a telephone call within three to five business days to plan a mutually agreeable meeting. Meanwhile, review your jobs in Ohio research, prepare thoughtful needs analysis questions, and be ready to demonstrate your worth when you meet Mr. or Ms. “Big.”
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