When you are searching for jobs, who you know can be as important as your qualifications. Your connections can give you with inside information on available jobs at a company. They can give you information on the hiring procedure and what it is like to work at the company. They might even be capable to help you secure an interview. Significant contacts can also write you recommendations, give your resume a close look, and help you prepare for an interview.

It is not just who you know personally who can help. It is also who the individuals you know can refer you to. Those second-degree connections may be able to assist you as well.

If you know what company or companies you’re interested in working for, try to find significant contacts at those companies. Read below for information on different ways to find contacts at companies, from networking online to going to alumni events to sending out email messages.

LinkedIn Networking

LinkedIn is the most famous website for professional networking. The site offers a number of ways for you to find significant contacts at a company.

First, search your LinkedIn Connections to see who you know at a company. There are several ways to do this. You can search for a company name in the search bar at the top left corner of the screen. Then, click on the “People” tab at the top of the screen. This will indicate you any of your connections that work, or have worked, at that company.

Another option after you search for a company name is to click on the “Companies” tab at the top of the screen. Then, you can click on the company’s LinkedIn page, which will list any connections you have at the company.

You will be capable to see individuals who are first-degree connections, meaning you are connected with them, as well as second-degree connections, meaning they are connected to someone you know.

You can also see third-degree connections, and connections beyond that.

Also, search the Groups Directory by keyword. Many companies and groups of companies have Groups you can join. Once you are a member you’ll be able to interact with the other group members. This is a good way to connect with people at multiple companies within your industry.

Once you find someone you know at a company, you can reach out to them through LinkedIn’s messaging system. If you find a second-degree connection, looked at your shared connections with that person. Reach out to one of your shared connections, and see if he or she is willing to connect the two of you.

College Career Networking

If you are a college student or graduate, you likely have a number of company significant contacts that you don’t even know about. Check with your college career services office and alumni affairs office to see if there is an online career network you can access to search for alumni at a company.

Your university may also have LinkedIn and Facebook groups you can use to connect. Join their group or groups, and search for people who work at companies of interest.

In-Person Networking

Networking in person is actually significant, too. You cannot beat that one-on-one interaction, especially when you’re seeking help.

If you belong to a professional association, attend a meeting or a mixer. You’ll find that many of the participants have the same goals you do, and may have contacts at the companies you’re interested in.

If your college or university holds alumni networking events, be sure to attend. Join the local chapter of your alumni association.

Old Fashioned Networking

While online databases and networking events are terrific ways to find connections, do not forget about old-fashioned networking. Simply reach out to people you know and inquire if they know anyone at the companies you would like to work for. Even if they don’t know someone personally, they may be able to refer you to someone who does.

You can reach out to your network in a number of ways. Consider sending an email to friends, family, and work contacts.

You might also call or speak in person to people you know who are in your industry.

Combine Strategies for Significant Contacts

It makes sense to use a combination of these strategies to find connections at various companies. Don’t limit yourself to one way or another. When you find a job opportunity you’re interested in, check right away to see who you know at the company. Check LinkedIn and your alumni network, reach out to friends and family, and attend any relevant networking events. You never know who might be able to give your candidacy an empowerment.