Can you really get a decent job without contacts in companies?

Question

I work in IT for a big company but my job is about to be eliminated. The so called experts are saying that the job boards (monster dice etc) and even headhunters almost never work. Same for the company boards. They basically said unless you have a good network of people in your industry at different places, which I don't have because I worked for the same place with the same few people for years, landing another job will be near impossible. Is this true? If I don't have the contacts, how can I land a good job?

Answer 1

its very possible, but knowing someone is a big advantage, its less of a risk for the employer.

especially for IT though, u should be ok, something like sales would require a lot more networking skills.

Answer 2

Yes. Not all jobs are contact based.

Do some research and find out a company that you like and think is a good fit for you. Go (if possible) or send your resume and a cover letter to their HR department. Be persistent in your efforts. If you really want a job with a specific company, and are knowledgeable about them, they will most likely try to find you a position.

Also, you might have contacts and not know it. You don't have to know someone intimately to ask for help. Most people are more than willing to assist. Try asking co-workers, previous employers, friends at different companies, even if they aren't in the same line of work.

And finally, good places to look for jobs are through your college if you have one. They have the resources to find openings. See if there are any alumni you can get in contact with.

Answer 3

IT may be different than engineering, but I must say, from the time I graduated college until now, I have worked at 4 corporations in 13 years. All of them I did not have any contacts at. I wowed them with a good interview, a good resume, and good work experience. I have only not gotten the job 2x I have ever interviewed. Contacts within companies do help - don't get me wrong. It's a great way to get your foot in the door...but in no way do I believe it is the only way.

Answer 4

That's a load of crap, and I don't know why they would tell you that. I keep my resume on Monster, Hotjobs, and Dice all the time, and I get 5 to 6 calls a week from people. If your resume is noticeable, and you have good skills in it, there is no reason to fear the job boards.

Be warned, however, that it is a very competitive market out there. If your resume looks like everyone else's, don't expect too many calls.

Answer 5

Knowing someone usually leads to better pay, better benefits, better title, maybe even promotion sooner. I think often the job itself is based entirely on your own merits. Definitely talk to everyone, and tell them you are looking, it can't hurt. But you don't need connections to get a good job. Make sure your resume is clear and good, and be sure to target your resume and your cover letter every single time you apply for a job. Good luck!

Answer 6

a wise man once said, "the only thing worse than having a job, is looking for one"

my advice for you, is not to get your hopes down! get your resume together and get to searching. if you are in IT, you should have no problem whatsoever finding a new job that you like..

every company needs an IT guy, seriously!

Answer 7

you'll get a respectable job with no degree yet maximum places want you to have had some style of journey in in spite of you chosen to do. Soo...both get the preparation or get into some thing that you know alot about. possibly volunteer and get journey that way.

Answer 8

Apply through the so many Man Power Supply companies who are readily available to your help for even free !"!!

Answer 9

Unemployment is at 4%. You will not have a hard time.