Winning an Interview:

How to Skirt the Application Process

Mike Santoro, President, Walker Sands

April 30, 2013

Two Ways to Get a Job

Way #1: Traditional Way

2,000 applicants

40 “perfect” resumes

10 “perfect” writing tests

Interview

Two Ways to Get a Job

Way #2: Know Someone

Company influencer says, “This person is

awesome.”

Interview

Traditional Way is Easy!

But it doesn’t result in an interview!

Getting Recommended is Very Hard.

But it will be more effective!

Walker Sands Hiring (Previous Year)

40%

10%

25%

25%

Job Listings

Recruiters

Employee Referrals

Interns converted to full time

Getting Recommended is Very Hard.

How do I get Challin to be my friend?

6 Steps to Making Friends

Step 1: Define Your Goal

Figure out WHAT you want to do & WHO you

want to do it for.

Step 2: Become a Round Peg

Most resumes look like square pegs trying to fit

into round holes.

I know marketing things.

Typical Candidate

2-3 years experience in a PR agencyStrong writing skills

Ability to demonstrate creativityExperience pitching the mediaUnderstanding of social media

Job Description

Step 3: Meet People & Ask Questions

Target decision makers AND junior level

influencers. Everyone drinks coffee.

Step 4: Become a Special Peg

Find a way to get experience that matters.

I know marketing things.

No Job

PR experienceExperience with media

Strong writerCreative thinker

Entry Level Highly Desirable

Tech PR experienceMedia relationships

Regularly writes tech blogHas managed an infographic

projectShares highly relevant content

on Twitter

Step 5: Keep in Touch

Keep building your network while maintaining

your best connections.

Share their content

Share articles & events

Ask for advice

Step 6: Find the Job/Make the Ask

Don’t forget to keep your contact up to date

once you’re in the process.

Wait for the RIGHT job

Ask your friend – you’re friends by now, right?

If you only remember 3 things…

Prepare yourself to fit that role

Find what’s right for YOU

Friend people who can help you

Thank you!

Walker Sands Communications

121 N. Jefferson St.Chicago, IL 60661Phone: (312) 267-0066Fax: (312) 876-1388

www.walkersands.com