3 minutes to read
Many veterans tell me stories about not getting a job that they obviously qualify for. They can’t figure out why they lost out or didn’t even get a meeting with HR. It feels like when you were a kid and wanted to be in a particular club. Try as you might, they wouldn’t let you in. If your hunt for employment feels like constant rejection from the “in crowd,” you’re committing job search sin #7: Applying for a job at a company where you don’t have an internal advocate.
The Huge Advantage of Getting Referred
About 7% of applicants for a job got referred by someone already working at the company. But 40% of people hired by a company come from employee referrals. Six times as many people apply for jobs through job boards. But only 15% of hires come from that source. Your chances of landing the job you want increase significantly when you have an advocate in your target company. Consider that:
- 86% of employers and recruiters said referrals are their top source for quality candidates.
- 70% of employers felt referred hires better fit their companies’ culture and values.
- 67% said the recruiting process is shorter with referrals.
- 51% said it was less expensive with referrals.
You may be thinking that’s fine for employers, but what about me?
- Employees hired through referrals reduce their average start time from 39-55 days to 29 days.
- The process for hiring a referred employee is 55% faster than one who comes through a career site.
- Referred employees stay at companies two to three times longer than those hired through a job board.
You’ll likely have greater job satisfaction if you’re referred to a company.
So if having an insider advocating for you is so great, why doesn’t every job searcher get one? Well, most people don’t have the basis for making the initial connection. And they won’t do the hard work to build the relationships.
As a veteran, neither of these hurdles stands in your way. Military people love to help each other out. And you’re used to working hard.
Becoming an Insider
Here’s where social media gives you a huge advantage. Once you’ve identified a target company, find another veteran who works there. Stick with someone who served in your branch of the service if possible. Then get in touch with the person and start building a relationship.
Earlier this year I wrote several posts on relationships building. They explain how to choose whom to connect with and the process of growing relationships. If you’re not sure how to get started select a topic, read up on it, then take action.
Learn what it takes to go from contact to relationship.
Build relationships physically, mentally, and spiritually. Keep in mind business relationships are first and foremost relationships.
How to spend your time creating relationships wisely.
Prepare yourself to invest time.
Be on the lookout for fortunate opportunities to create relationships.
You may blow the first few contacts. But remember, you’re dealing with your fellow veterans. We’ve been there and want to help you. So be genuine, be open, and by all means be proactive! Get a company you want to work for in your sights. Then go find your internal advocate so you can be an insider and get a job you’ll love.
What is the best way for you to connect to other people?
Please comment on this question or ask another question below.
