For job seekers, the biggest challenge isn’t always a lack of options; often, the problem is that there are too many options. From job sites to good ole’ fashioned applications, there are countless places to turn to seek new employment.
So how can job seekers narrow things down? Here’s a simple yet highly consequential word of advice: Be sure you go where the hiring managers are. Focus all your time and attention on the places where hiring managers are actually seeking new employees, rather than trying a little bit of everything to see what works.
Of course, all of this raises an important question: Where are hiring managers most active in searching for qualified applicants? In other words, where are the areas where a job seeker’s efforts can be most meaningful?
The Top 3 Ways Hiring Managers Find New Employees
There are three specific areas where hiring managers tend to look for new applicants. We’ll discuss them one at a time.
1) Employee Referrals
You’re probably familiar with the old saying, it’s not what you know, it’s who you know. This is a longstanding adage among job seekers, and as it turns out, it’s based in truth. Studies show that more than half of all hiring managers turn to their employees to recommend top applicants for any open position.
You can probably understand why this might be the case. Hiring people is always risky but hiring managers will typically feel a little more confident about it if they have someone on hand to vouch for an applicant’s skill, work ethic, honesty, and character.
In fact, employee referrals are so coveted that many workplaces actually have bonuses they hand out to people who can help them bring in qualified applicants.
So what does this mean for those who are seeking employment? For one thing, it’s highly important to let all your friends know you’re in the job market, and that you appreciate any recommendation they can make on your behalf. This simple gesture may be one of the most powerful things you can do to propel your job search forward.
2) Personal Network and Industry Connections
While some employers ask their employees to help them find qualified candidates, others ask their colleagues, peers, and industry connections.
About a third of all hiring managers say that, when it comes time to find a new employee, they ask the folks in their personal network to offer a recommendation.
This is another example of how important it is to know the right people and to always be clear in asking for help in your job search. Simply letting people know you’re in the market can go a long way.
3) Recruiters and Staffing Companies
The third way hiring managers seek new employees is through recruiters and staffing companies. Close to half of all hiring managers say this is a route they prefer.
There are several benefits that this approach affords hiring managers: It saves them time, it can often save the expense, and it provides a lot of flexibility.
And it’s also beneficial for job seekers, who gain exposure to great positions from great employers… including some positions that may not be advertised to the public.
Our advice for those seeking employment? Let your friends know you’re on the hunt. But also, consider working with a staffing company, like Performance Staffing Solutions. We’d love to help you find meaningful career opportunities with respected employers throughout the Carolinas.
If you’re ready to learn more, we’d recommend taking the first step of filling out an application with Performance Staffing Solutions.
