How to Apply for a Position That Doesn’t Exist

Hoping for that ideal opportunity to appear in your inbox?

Struggling to discover job postings that truly align with your talents and aspirations?

If your quest for the perfect job has been fruitless so far, it might be because it doesn’t exist—perhaps, not just yet.

In reality, if you’re determined to land a job that resonates with you, it’s high time to expand beyond the confines of advertised positions.

I, too, recently forged my own path in my career journey, and you have the power to do the same.

By conducting strategic research, fostering connections, and showcasing your abilities, you can navigate your way to success.

Find out: Don’t Waste Another Job Application: Fix Your Resume

Here’s your blueprint for action.

1. Assemble Your Ideal Employer List

Crafting your dream career involves aligning with a company that resonates with your values, offers room for your personal growth, and boasts a team you genuinely enjoy collaborating with.

Begin by conducting thorough research and curate a roster of your desired organizations—even if they’re not advertising vacancies.

Compile a spreadsheet featuring 10-20 potential employers, complete with categories specifying feasible departments for your expertise, existing contacts you can tap into, and any potential inroads you can identify.

Next, delve into each company’s background to gauge which might plausibly have a space for you.

Use social media insights, platforms like Glassdoor, and the company’s official blog and press releases to glean insights.

Unearth valuable information, such as emerging departments, firms recently infused with funds that could be seeking new talent, or unexplored niches within your skill set that the company hasn’t tapped into.

For instance, if you’re a digital strategist and notice a fashion startup without an active online presence, you could be the missing piece they’re seeking.

Remember, don’t confine yourself to a company’s listed job offerings. Especially with smaller entities, they might be open to hiring in unadvertised areas that fit your expertise.

After identifying your potential roles, pinpoint companies teetering on the edge of expansion, and identify strategic gaps within their teams.

Document these insights comprehensively in your spreadsheet for future reference.

Find out: The 30 Funniest Resumes and Job Applications We’ve Ever Seen

2. Leverage Your Network

One of the most potent tools at your disposal when applying for a position that does not exist is your network.

Your network consists of individuals who may possess insider knowledge about your dream companies, can provide insights on gaining visibility, and, in the best-case scenario, are willing to advocate for your talents and capabilities, compelling your prospective boss to exclaim, ‘We must hire this person immediately!’

Start by exploring your LinkedIn connections to identify anyone affiliated with your desired company or those who could introduce you to relevant contacts.

Crafting a succinct message to your connections to convey your objectives can be highly effective:

“Greetings! I trust you’re doing well. How’s everything at [mention employer]? I was hoping to ask a favor – I’ve developed a keen interest in establishing a connection with [insert name] and delving deeper into the company’s dynamic marketing department. It strikes me that my proficiency in [describe your expertise] might align well there. If you’re comfortable, would you consider facilitating an introduction?“

If you don’t share any mutual connections, fear not – you can still make direct contact with hiring managers.

Consult strategies for tracking down email addresses, or consider opting for a LinkedIn premium subscription to initiate InMail messages.

With this valuable information in hand, you’re now ready to proceed to the next step:

3. Crafting an Irresistible Proposal

Applying for a position that doesn’t exist I like aiming to define your own niche within a company.

You must approach it like you would market a unique product or service the company hasn’t considered yet.

Convince them that your presence could yield measurable benefits such as increased sales, streamlined processes, or enhanced efficiency.

Gather your achievements, mold a persuasive pitch, and demonstrate how your background aligns with the company’s vision.

Additionally, showcase your knowledge about the company’s history and articulate your genuine enthusiasm to join their ranks.

For instance, envision this scenario with a present employer:

Hello Alex,

I’m truly impressed with the innovative solutions that CloudSynergy offers in data security. Your multi-factor authentication system is both comprehensive and user-friendly.

I’m keen to explore if there’s an avenue for me to contribute to the company’s cybersecurity strategy.

Armed with a decade of experience in IT security, I’ve overseen the implementation of a similar solution at my previous organization. This led to a 30% reduction in security breaches and notable savings in incident response costs.

Moreover, my team’s proactive measures boosted client trust and retention.

I believe these accomplishments could translate seamlessly to CloudSynergy’s goals.

Could we arrange a conversation to delve into your objectives and explore how my expertise can complement your team’s efforts?

Warm regards,

Samuel M.

Drawing from the actual communication, which yielded positive results, the cover letter exemplifies the company’s potential to thrive under the applicant’s input.

Although the advertised role was different, by showcasing the unique value he brings, he secured a custom role aligned with his aspirations— position doesn’t exist yet fitting perfectly within the company’s framework.

Lastly, during interviews, equip yourself with an in-depth understanding of the business, industry trends, and competitors. This demonstrates your readiness to make an immediate impact.

Emphasize the significance of the specialized position you seek, outlining how it can elevate the company’s efficiency, cost-effectiveness, or revenue generation.

Remember, you’re not solely pitching yourself; you’re persuading your prospective manager about the role’s essence.

Mastering this art could be your ticket to attaining your dream role.