Find your dream employer - without applying

Everyone has a network: classmates, neighbors, friends, parents of children's friends. In recent years, digital networks such as Xing and especially LinkedIn have been added. Through proactive networking, the use of social media, personal branding and strategic engagement in the industry, there are many ways to get in front of the employer of choice without applying. Networking is one of the most effective ways to discover professional opportunities that are not publicly advertised. Many positions are filled internally or through personal referrals before they even appear on the job market. Therefore, a strong professional network can be the key to finding your dream employer.

The professional network

Building a network starts with making professional contacts and maintaining relationships. This can be done in a variety of ways: by attending industry events, conferences or meetups. It also makes sense to join alumni networks or professional organizations that offer relevant contacts. The aim is to build long-term relationships where you support and learn from each other.

• Tip: Create a list of desired employers, then research the relevant professional contacts in these companies and network with them. LinkedIn is particularly relevant for search engines. Anyone who types your name into Google will come to your LinkedIn profile first.

Personal branding

Another important aspect of finding your dream employer without applying is personal branding. In a world where almost every employer searches online for information about potential employees, how you present yourself is crucial. Every employee should now be their own brand and present themselves accordingly.

• Tip: Think about your unique selling point. What sets you apart from the competition? ... and include this in your profile slogan.

Expert status

To be perceived as an attractive candidate, position yourself as an expert in your field. What can you offer an employer? What do you stand for?
It is essential to present yourself so that your desired employer takes notice of you. For many, this is a major hurdle to gaining visibility. This can be done by writing specialist articles, blog posts or posting your own content on platforms. In addition to LinkedIn, other social media can also play a role in finding your dream employer. In certain industries, it makes sense to use platforms such as Twitter or Instagram to network with companies and industry leaders. It is important to remain authentic and create your own content that offers real added value.

Involvement in the industry or community

Active involvement in your own industry can open doors that remain closed to others. Many opportunities arise through personal acquaintances and by becoming visible as an active member of a professional group. Xing and LinkedIn offer interesting digital groups for almost all industries, in which members regularly exchange information on specialist topics. Interesting and relevant contacts can be made via the specialist topics.
Participating in industry events or job fairs is another way to network in your industry and find a potential employer. At these events, you can make direct contact with managers and decision-makers and discuss current trends and developments. An advertising flyer often helps instead of a lengthy application. Regional job fairs offer excellent opportunities to talk to employers.

Strategic communication

If this is all too many possibilities for you and you prefer a structured approach, it makes sense to develop strategic communication with your ideal employer. The first step is to identify companies that meet your expectations and where you would like to work. On LinkedIn, the first step is to send a networking request to the person in question. However, this can also be done by sending e-mails to contact persons. It is important to emphasize the added value you bring to the company in the message. The focus should always be on the needs of the company.

Use recommendations

Another way to find your dream employer without applying is to use recommendations and connections. Often friends, colleagues or former superiors have contacts at companies that might be of interest. Many people are willing to share their contacts or make recommendations if they know someone is looking for a new position. A referral from a trusted person can make all the difference and facilitate access to a position. Many companies have internal referral programs where employees are rewarded for recommending suitable candidates for open positions. This is particularly common among tradespeople.

Success through proactive strategies

Author Barbara Rottwinkel-Kröber from Hamburg is a former publisher and now a job coach and career consultant. www.starke-frauen.info © Sven Casselius

Finding your dream employer without applying is therefore possible if you are prepared to be proactive and take a strategic approach. By networking, building personal branding, actively engaging in the industry, approaching companies directly and using referrals, you can attract the right employer. However, the key to success lies in presenting yourself as a valuable resource, remaining authentic and targeting the companies that fit your professional and personal goals.