Wednesday, September 02, 2009

4 Ways to Find the Best Employers

"How can I find the best companies to work for?"

That's a question most job seekers ask almost daily.

It's hard to answer ... because it's the wrong question.

Here's the real issue beneath that question: "I don't want to have to think hard about finding the best companies to work for."

Admit it. You -- like me and all humans -- hate to think.

It takes time. You have to pick and choose. You might make a mistake. And it can give you a headache.

But unthinking behavior is a sure way to stay unemployed.

So, let's re-phrase the query, because a well-phrased question is half-answered.

If you've been job hunting for more than 4 weeks, ask this question instead: "What have I NOT been willing to do to find the best companies to work for?"

That's better. And easier to answer. In fact, here 4 things you can do TODAY to find the best employers to work for ...


1) Look at your connections on LinkedIn.

I mean really look. Pick 5 people you admire, view their profiles, and look for the following:

* Where do they work now? (Could you work there?)
* Where did they work before? (Could you work there?)
* Who are their clients? (Could you work there?)
* Who are their competitors? (Could you work there?)
* Who are their vendors? (Could you work there?)

Do this for 5, 10, or more people, and you'll surely find 5-20 prospective employers.


2) Make connections at your last employers.

Specifically, think about everyplace you've worked before. Now ask yourself the following questions:

* Could you work there again? (Could you work there again? Don't snicker -- getting re-hired happens every day.)
* Could you work for your former clients?
* Could you work for your former competitors?
* Could you work for your former vendors?


3) Find companies in the news.

Spend 15-20 minutes researching the Business section of your local newspaper, looking for fast, smart, growing companies. Can't find any? Consider moving (or looking harder).


4) Ask 5 people you admire.

I saved this for last, but it really ought to come first. Because, the more conversations you have, the more people will know about your job search -- and the faster you'll get hired.

So, ask the 5 most-connected people you know for advice.

Tip: Take them all out for coffee, bring a legal pad, take notes. In 30-45 minutes, you'll surely come away with answers that will shorten your job search. Total cost: Less than $30.

[Article by Kevin Donlin, Co-Creator of the Guerrilla Job Search System.]

If you're in the job market and want to try something new, you can see Guerilla Job Search secrets caught on video and learn more here.]

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