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Syndicated columnist
Q: How do I get the hiring manager's attention?
I know that a local company has new positions in the works, but I can't get anyone to talk to me. Is my only alternative to send a resume and hope it is seen by the district manager?
Nick's reply: No, don't give up yet. You've got the right idea: Avoid the personnel department if you can. Work a bit harder to contact the manager directly. Here's one way to do it, through networking. Call the company's sales department -- those calls always get connected. Tell the sales rep that you would appreciate a little advice. "I'm considering applying for a job at your company. Is it a good place to work?" This is such a disarming request that I think you'll get some advice. Learn all you can, and then ask for a referral. "I don't want to apply for a job until I learn more about the operation. Can you recommend someone other than the personnel department who might talk with me? I'd be beholden to you."
If this sounds like a commando-style tactic, that's what it takes sometimes. Note that this is not a ruse: I don't believe in using a ruse to reach anyone. But you can be honest and clever at the same time. Your goal is to talk with someone who knows the manager. Keep track of names -- you will need to drop one later.
Then, leave this message for the manager: "I spoke with so-and-so about those positions you're planning to fill and I thought I'd give you a call." When you get a callback, you must be ready to deliver. Be ready to tell something about yourself that will have an impact on the manager's business. (Don't waste the call by reciting your resume -- trust me!) For example, "In my current job I shortened product delivery time by ... and it saved my department $50,000. That's the kind of challenge I'm looking for. Can you give me an idea of the problems you need help with?"
Never send a blind resume. Make a good contact and get introduced to the manager. Most important: Have something useful to say.
Copyright 2008. Distributed by Universal Press Syndicate
Nick Corcodilos is author of "Ask The Headhunter: Reinventing the Interview to Win the Job" and the host of www.asktheheadhunter.com. He can be reached by e-mail at seattle@asktheheadhunter.com or at North Bridge Group, P.O. Box 600, Lebanon, NJ 08833. Sorry, no personal replies.
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