Target companies and let them know who you are
Managers very often prefer to recruit within their network or that of their collaborators. It is therefore important to access a variety of professional networks to make sure you take advantage of the job opportunities they offer. Learn more about effective techniques to approach companies.
Step 1: Draw up a list of companies to target
Choose these companies (max. 40) according to the criteria that will optimize you chances of getting a job that corresponds to your professional goals.
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Dream companies (max. 10). Find them on these sites Les Affaires (in French only), IMT online, CRIQ, Scott's directories, for example.
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Employers who are HEC alumni. Find them in the alumni directory on LinkedIn.
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Employers who are recruiting. Visit various job search sites, such as My Career or Indeed.
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Emerging Companies (SME). To locate them, do a search by keyword, read the trade press or the list of Quebec’s 300 biggest SMEs (in French only).
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Companies in which you have direct or indirect contacts (a member of an association of which you are also a member, a colleague’s sister, for example).
Step 2: Approach them and let them know who you are
You can easily access professional networks in the field that interests you.
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Get information on selected companies. Follow them in the news and on social media.
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Participate in the public events that the companies are involved in. Take this opportunity to exchange and learn more about the companies.
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Approach professionals that work for them, especially on LinkedIn. See how to benefit from such moves.
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Apply for jobs posted by these companies. You can remind the recruiter that you already have contacts in the company.
A tip from Claire Saint-Jacques, Advisor
“Keep tabs on the actions you undertake. It is in your interest to keep a file of all the information you gather: steps taken, dates, names and contact information of people you met. This will allow you to have a clear idea of your process, to follow up with your contacts and avoid certain missteps.”
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Find out more
Find out about upcoming recruiting and networking events and take advantage of the advice offered by the Career and Management Services resource people.