I'm a former big tech sales person – Here's how I usually approach job hunting

Hi everyone!

I’ve been on the hunt for a while and wanted to share some creative strategies that have really boosted my interview rates. Hopefully, these tips can help you too!

1. Using Google Advanced Search

I use Google’s advanced search to find job listings that might not be on the main job boards. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Step 1: Go to Google and enter the following search query: “[job title]” + site:greenhouse.io/* + “[country]” Example: “Sales Manager” + site:greenhouse.io/* + “USA”

• Step 2: Add date filters to find the most recent listings by including terms like “Aug” + “2024”: “Sales Manager” + site:greenhouse.io/* + “USA” + “Aug” + “2024”

• Step 3: Use variations of this search across other job boards (listed below) to uncover hidden opportunities.

This method helps me find jobs that others might miss.

2. LinkedIn Screening

After finding a job listing, I go on LinkedIn to identify the hiring manager or team members. Here’s how:

• Step 1: Search for the company and filter by location and department.
• Step 2: Look for recent posts or activities related to the job. Engage with their content by liking or commenting.

• Step 3: Send a connection request with a personalized message: “` Hi [Name],

  I came across your profile while researching [Company]. I noticed your post about [relevant topic] and found it insightful. I’m very interested in the [Position] role at [Company] and would love to connect and learn more about your team. Thanks, [Your Name] “`

3. Getting email addresses

I use tools like Hunter.io or Kaspr.io to guess email addresses. Here’s my process:

• Step 1: Use the tools to generate possible email formats.
• Step 2: Verify emails using services like NeverBounce if available.
• Step 3: If verification isn’t possible, send anyway with a personalized touch.

4. Crafting Personalized Cold Emails

I send out cold emails that are custom-tailored. Here’s a template that usually works for me:

“` Hey [name], I’m [Your Name], a [Job Title] currently at [Company]. I was excited to see your team is hiring for [Position] and wanted to reach out directly. I’ve attached my resume for your review. I’m particularly interested in [specific project or aspect of the position you’re vying for], and I believe my experience in [relevant skill/experience] could add value to your team. Here’s a quick overview of my work: [Link to Portfolio/Project] Is it okay if I drop my resume to see if I can get it forwarded to the right person via you? I’d love to apply ^

[Your Name] [Your Website/Portfolio/GitHub] “`

5. Engaging Follow-Ups

I follow up with a friendly nudge a week later to keep the conversation going:

“` Hi [name], Hope you’re doing well! Just checking to see if you had a chance to look at my resume. No worries if it’s not the right time or I’m not the right fit. Just let me know with a quick “Not hiring right now!” and I won’t bother you again ^

Thanks, [Your Name] “`

6. Doing it at Scale

For each iteration of my resume, I use a specialized resume builder to help me find the right keywords. This ensures I can 1/ pass the ATS, and 2/ have my hiring manager resonate with the content of my resume. These small tweaks will for sure lend you more interview calls than when you apply a vanilla version of your resume.

7. Networking in niche circles

I also tap into niche communities and forums related to my industry (since I’m in tech it’s either Blind or FishBowl).

Job Boards for the Advanced Google Search Hack:

• Greenhouse
• Lever
• SmartRecruiters
• AngelList
• Built In
• WayUp
• VentureLoop
• Authentic Jobs
• AngelList Talent
• Idealist
• ArtStation
• Stack Overflow Jobs
• Dribbble
• TechCareers
• Remote OK
• We Work Remotely
• GitHub Jobs
• Mediabistro
• Crunchboard
• Jobcase
• Local job boards (e.g., Craigslist)
• State and city-specific job boards (e.g., New York State Job Bank, WorkSource Oregon)
• Handshake
• FlexJobs
• Upwork
• Hospitality Online
• HigherEdJobs
• Salesforce Jobs
• eFinancialCareers
• Health eCareers

If you’re interested in more detailed templates, I actually have a small library of cold-email templates specifically tailored for job hunting. They’ve been quite effective for me. If there’s enough interest, I’d be happy to share more about it!

Hope these tips help. good luck, everyone!

• Edit: sorry for the poor formatting on the emails!!! I’m a markdown noob, will edit later!
• Edit2: links/tools are added back!