When seeking a new job, there are conventional steps to enhance your chances. Update your resume with recent accomplishments, optimize your LinkedIn profile, and perhaps invest in a professional headshot. However, in a competitive job market, you may feel disheartened by the lack of responses from applications submitted through major platforms like LinkedIn or Indeed, especially when faced with the daunting “100+ applicants” label for a single job posting. Such situations can be demotivating, making you want to retreat under your covers forever.
In such challenging times, job seekers need to explore unconventional avenues to discover new job prospects. Introducing: Industry Slack groups. A current trend in the networking realm involves specialized Slack groups dedicated to specific industries. These groups, like “Project Managers in Tech in Chicago” or “Wedding Photographers in Ohio,” offer a professional twist on the once-popular Facebook groups of the past, now providing substantial career value. These “exclusive” groups consist of professionals in similar fields, offering unique insights, connections, and job postings not easily found elsewhere. Personally, I found my most recent job through a marketing Slack group in my city, even before the role was advertised on any job board or the company’s website. The individual vacating the position announced it in the group, expressing her need for a suitable candidate. We met for coffee, and the rest is history.
How to Locate an Industry Slack Group
Wondering how to join one of these groups? It may require some detective work, but it’s definitely achievable! Start by conducting a Google search using terms like “[your industry] Slack group” along with your location. If that search yields no results, try varying your industry keywords or broadening your search by using general terms like “product marketing Slack” and “United States”. Don’t lose hope; even large, general groups can still offer valuable opportunities. For instance, the Slack group where I found my job caters to content marketers across North America, and I frequently encounter job postings for my city or remote positions there.
If your Google search proves fruitless, don’t give up just yet. Proceed to LinkedIn and input the same search terms. Group administrators or founders often mention group details in their LinkedIn bios or career sections, providing a pathway for you to reach out. Additionally, seek recommendations from colleagues, friends, your university alumni network, etc., as networking plays a crucial role in gaining access to these groups. It may involve some networking finesse, but with determination, you’ll find your way in!
I’m in a Group, Now What?
Congratulations on finding a group to join (and be open to exploring various groups, even those only loosely related to your field)! Once you’ve identified a suitable group, the next step is to secure your membership. While many groups are open to all, requiring only a link for entry, some may necessitate an invitation. The easiest way to receive an invitation is by connecting with an existing group member. Reach out to acquaintances and friends to identify individuals within your desired group. In the absence of direct contacts, look for group administrators or pages on LinkedIn, a strategy that has proven effective for me. Furthermore, consider contacting organizations or associations relevant to your industry, such as the fictitious “New York Copywriters Association,” as they may possess connections to assist you in joining a group.
Navigating Networking in Slack
You’ve successfully gained entry to a group and are ready to uncover those hidden job opportunities! While this is an exciting phase, it’s vital to respect the unwritten rules prevalent in most industry Slack groups. These groups typically feature a code of conduct, often outlined in a #general or #announcements channel, which should be your primary reference point. Many groups prohibit spamming, self-promotion, or even job-seeking posts (so double-check!), with rules dictating channel-specific usage. Based on my experience, group administrators enforce these guidelines seriously, hence adherence is crucial to avoid expulsion after investing effort to join.
Unlike LinkedIn, Slack groups emphasize community engagement and active participation. The more you interact and engage with fellow members, the greater your chances of receiving insider information on upcoming job opportunities. Share your insights in discussions on industry topics, offer feedback to inquiries, and promote relevant meetups. Establishing credibility and fostering community ties can significantly enhance your job hunting prospects.
Securing a Job through Slack
Now that you’re part of a group, familiar with the guidelines, and actively participating, it’s time to land that coveted job role. Most groups feature a dedicated channel for job postings. Given that job-seeking posts might be restricted in some groups, patience is required to identify a suitable opportunity. During my job search, I monitored group postings multiple times daily. Upon encountering a relevant role, I promptly reached out to the poster to express my interest. While not everyone may respond positively (some postings are referrals from recruiters or within the poster’s own company), many individuals are open to discussions. The key is to initiate contact swiftly to capitalize on their receptiveness and prepare insightful questions to demonstrate your enthusiasm.
Following conversations with the job poster—be it on Slack or through a call—and confirming your interest, ensure your resume and cover letter are ready for submission shortly thereafter. Promptness is essential to maintain the momentum of your discussion. Clarify with your contact the preferred method for application submission, be it directly to them, through a designated link, or via the company’s career portal. As application processes vary per organization, seek guidance on the appropriate submission protocol. After applying, adhere to common courtesy by expressing gratitude to your connection for their assistance, providing updates on your progress unless they are directly involved in the hiring decision.
Pro Tip: Before publicly announcing your job search intentions or engaging in job-related threads, check for any colleagues from your current workplace in the group (it’s a small world after all). Utilize the member search function to identify potential conflicts, such as your supervisor, team members, or HR representatives. In such instances, consider exploring alternative groups for job hunting or opt for private messaging over public discussions.
Embracing Reciprocity
Employ this strategy until you secure a fitting role. Many of my acquaintances and network connections have successfully found jobs through Slack groups, underscoring the effectiveness of this job hunting approach. Post available job opportunities you come across, spread awareness about the groups you are part of, and advocate for inclusivity. While Slack groups may exude an aura of exclusivity at times, remember that growth in membership translates to more networking opportunities and job prospects, so share the wealth and extend invitations to potential beneficiaries!
