It's the crux of modern-day job seekers: They're often told that to stand out from other candidates, they need to contact members of an organization directly. But what if employee contact information is hidden? Sometimes it's like a black hole — you could end up searching for what seems like forever to no avail.
At times like these, you have to think of yourself as a detective of sorts. You have to be creative. You have to think outside the box. You have to be stealthy. Finding the contact information of a hiring manager or employer is like a game, and you need to use the right methods to come out on top.
So, what are some best-kept secrets to gaining this information so you can streamline the communication and application process? Check out these suggestions.
1. Stalk Them
OK, so literally stalking anyone is a bad idea, but when you want to find out employer contact information, some light "stalking" can improve your chances.
For example, you can make some phone calls to company gatekeepers, such as administrative assistants, interns or secretaries. Contacting members of your network, such as school pals or fellow graduates of your alma mater, to see if there's a mutual connection is also a great way to find contact information. Lastly, going to networking events where you know an employer will be present not only helps you find contact information, it can also open up the lines of communication.
Advantage: Allows you to quickly investigate contact information without any heavy lifting.
2. Use Email Verification Tools
Email verification tools are a great way to tell if an email address is fully functional. For example, you may get a tip from someone that the CEO has a hidden email address. By using these verification tools, you can find out whether or not the address is legitimate. Check out resources like verify-email.org to get started.
Advantage: If you have several email addresses to chose from, verification tools can help you to narrow down your options.
3. Check Out Public Records
Public records allow you to easily access contact information, such as phone numbers or email addresses, for basically anyone. Though they may cost money if you use an outside service, it may be worth it, since it's harder to access public records on your own.
Advantage: Contact information is typically up-to-date and verified.
4. Contact Former Employees
Former employees may not be your first point of contact, but they typically have access to contact information of company bigwigs. Even if you don't know them, send them a note on LinkedIn or contact them through their listed information. Most people are willing to help, especially if your approach is polite and straightforward.
Advantage: Former employees may also be able to point you toward the best person to contact.
5. Make Calculated Assumptions
You've heard the saying, "You should never assume," right? Well, in this case, assumptions could steer you in the right direction. Many companies use the same email address patterns. If one company email is listed as susy.snowflake@wintertime.com, chances are, the same patterns will occur in other email addresses. That is, first name, period, last name.
Advantage: Since patterns are typically the same for all members of the company, all you need to do is locate the name of the employer or hiring manager. This is typically easier to locate than the contact information itself.
6. Search Social Networking Platforms
Social networking platforms are like the modern-day Yellow Pages: Most people are on them and you can find out a lot about a person by doing a quick search. See if the profile of the employer is open on Facebook — some of them include email addresses and phone numbers. You can also contact someone on Twitter to verify an email address. Or, you can connect or send messages on LinkedIn to gain contact information.
Advantage: This is an easy way to investigate employer information, while also giving you the chance to use these platforms as a communication method.
What do you think is the best way to find employer contact information? Tell us in the comments what's worked for you.
Mashable Job Board Listings
The Mashable Job Board connects job seekers across the U.S. with unique career opportunities in the digital space. While we publish a wide range of job listings, we have selected a few job opportunities from the past two weeks to help get you started. Happy hunting!
SEO Specialist at Blue Fountain Media in New York, N.Y.
Social Media and Public Relations Manager at Luxe Hotels in Los Angeles, Calif.
Account Director at Digital Brand Architects in New York, N.Y.
Image via iStockphoto, slobo
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