We often hear that a glowing recommendation from someone inside your dream company is the golden ticket to landing a job. But what if you’re just getting started and your network hasn’t spread that far yet? Is it game over? Far from it!

Having navigated these waters, I’ve pieced together some tips that have helped me over the years:

1. Dive into side projects

Whether it’s contributing to open-source or initiating small personal endeavors, side projects illustrate your passion and drive. They’re real-world testimonials to your skills and determination. When I’m hiring designers, side projects always stand out.

2. One company at a time

Resist the urge to scatter-shot your applications. Tailoring your message to one company at a time lets you deep-dive into what they truly value and allows you to craft a stand out application.

3. Keep crafting your portfolio

A designers portfolio is the first thing I look at when hiring designers. A portfolio isn’t a static entity. Continuously curate and update it, ensuring that the quality of your work either mirrors or surpasses that of the company you want to work for.

4. Do your research

Don’t just skim the company’s “About Us” page. Immerse yourself in their culture, mission, and the role’s specifics. Doing so will help ensure that your application or interview responses resonate with the company’s ethos, and you’ll already be ahead of many others.

5. Boldly Reach Out

If you admire a company, there’s no harm in reaching out to 1-2 select individuals within that company for advice. You may or may not get a response, but it never hurts to show how much you care and that you’re willing to go above and beyond.

6. Be Unforgettable

In a sea of similar applications, dare to be different. From a video resume to a tailored microsite or an application mockup inspired by their products design, create something that the hiring manager will remember or even better, something they’ll immediately want to show others internally.

As an example, here’s the top portion of the micro-site I used when I reapplied to Automattic after leaving 3 years prior:

7. Proactively answer questions

Let’s say you get an interview. The day before the interview you might consider proactively emailing the person who will be interviewing you and sharing answers to the top 3-5 questions you think they’ll likely ask in the interview. Be candid. Be personable, but also sell yourself. Chances are, no one else will do this.

8. Reapply

Rejection can sting, but remember it’s often just a snapshot in time. If you’re truly passionate about a role or company, don’t be disheartened if you don’t make the cut initially. The job landscape, company needs, and even your own skills are ever-evolving. Take it as an opportunity to refine your skills further, gain more experience, and then circle back 6 months or a year later to reapply. Your persistence, coupled with evident growth, could make all the difference the second time around.

Wrapping up

While connections can give you an edge, it’s your dedication, authenticity, and drive that truly stand out. Instead of casting a wide net, hone in on one company. Remember, each “no” brings you one step closer to the “yes” you’re striving for.

Now it’s your turn

What tips do you have to share? What techniques have worked for you?