The 2-Hour Job Search

Technology effectively ruined the "mail and wait" job search strategy because it is now far more difficult for employers to pick out the few interesting applicants from the massive new influx of casual applicants.

Technology effectively ruined the "mail and wait" job search strategy because it is now far more difficult for employers to pick out the few interesting applicants from the massive new influx of casual applicants. Online applications are ineffective. The ease of applying online has led to an overwhelming number of applications for each job posting, making it nearly impossible for employers to review them all. Instead, employers rely heavily on internal referrals to fill positions. Research shows that for every one position filled through an online application, twelve are filled through internal referrals. Networking is crucial. The modern job search requires a strategic approach to networking and building relationships with potential advocates within target companies. This involves: Identifying and prioritizing target employers Reaching out to contacts within those companies Conducting informational interviews to gain insights and build rapport Following up consistently to maintain relationships and stay top-of-mind

Getting internal referrals is simply the only predictable way to get interviews; getting them efficiently is the core challenge of the modern job search. Create a targeted employer list. The LAMP (List, Advocacy, Motivation, Posting) list is a systematic method for creating and prioritizing a list of at least 40 target employers. This process involves: List: Identifying potential employers through various methods (e.g., dream employers, alumni connections, job postings) Advocacy: Determining the likelihood of finding a sympathetic contact within each company Motivation: Rating your personal interest level in each employer Posting: Assessing the relevance and urgency of current job openings Prioritize efficiently. By sorting the LAMP list based on these factors, job seekers can focus their efforts on the employers most likely to yield positive results, maximizing the return on their networking efforts.

Informationals usually start off with easy small talk, but you need to be prepared to answer the Big Four—four questions so frequently asked during any interview (informational or otherwise) that they get their own nickname. Leverage informational interviews. These conversations are crucial for building relationships, gaining insider knowledge, and potentially securing job interviews. Key aspects of effective informational interviews include: Preparing for common questions (e.g., "Tell me about yourself," "Why our company?") Focusing on learning about the contact's experiences and insights Demonstrating genuine interest in the company and industry Asking thoughtful questions that showcase your knowledge and enthusiasm Build rapport and gain information. The dual goals of informational interviews are to establish a connection with the contact and gather valuable insights about the company, industry, and potential job opportunities.