7 answers
Usha
Student
Plainfield, Illinois
3
Questions
Asked
879 views
How To Land Amazing Jobs Without Applying Online.?
Am a new graduate student looking for opportunities in Product management domain. Looking for a free Career Mentor. On Linked in I found a Career coaching platform which is out of My Budget. Looking some one who could help me with that.
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7 answers
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
613
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
Don’t underestimate your network of connections. Lean on previous teachers, classmates and those in your family who might have connections.
The reality is that a solid referral from the right person can raise your name above others going for a similar job.
The reality is that a solid referral from the right person can raise your name above others going for a similar job.
Donna McLeod
Project Manager
9
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Donna’s Answer
At the end of the day for transparency, risk and compliance concerns you should always apply for positions online. Companies/ organizations are about data, tracking it and using it. And the only way they can do that is if there is trail of job submission. Even if you get a nontraditional interview the organization will eventually ask you to submission or complete online paperwork. Additionally, building good relationships is very important, if you can’t afford to pay for a career mentor, ask people in your own community/village to introduce you to their contacts or someone in their network.
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
353
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
This is a great question, Ushaswini, but getting free assistance in this area may be difficult. To reiterate / expand on what James said:
- Check career services for your grad and undergrad schools - both have an interest in their graduates' success
- See if either school has programs with alumni for shadowing or mentoring
- See if former managers or professors might be willing to advise you - they already know you, which is an advantage
- Check all your LinkedIn contacts - someone may have changed jobs and be in a great spot to help you
Your schools should provide personalized advice for free, but most other sources will offer self-service, general information (e.g., see link below from State of Illinois). This is understandable because time a counselor provides for free detracts from time for paying customers. But you still might learn more about professional associations and jobs in your field, as well as tips for job applications.
Be aware that you may have to complete an online application, anyway, since that often is how your information will get into their system. But you are right that making personal contacts will help you stand out. Good luck!
Illinois resources - https://illinoiscareercounseling.com/job-seekers/career-resources/
- Check career services for your grad and undergrad schools - both have an interest in their graduates' success
- See if either school has programs with alumni for shadowing or mentoring
- See if former managers or professors might be willing to advise you - they already know you, which is an advantage
- Check all your LinkedIn contacts - someone may have changed jobs and be in a great spot to help you
Your schools should provide personalized advice for free, but most other sources will offer self-service, general information (e.g., see link below from State of Illinois). This is understandable because time a counselor provides for free detracts from time for paying customers. But you still might learn more about professional associations and jobs in your field, as well as tips for job applications.
Be aware that you may have to complete an online application, anyway, since that often is how your information will get into their system. But you are right that making personal contacts will help you stand out. Good luck!
Martha recommends the following next steps:
Latricia Friend, MBA, CHM
Consultant and Trainer in Hospitality/Private Service
21
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Latricia’s Answer
Hi, Ushasini
Starting with your subject line: How To Land Amazing Jobs Without Applying Online?
In 2024, even with a referral from someone at a company, a company's policy that all applicants apply through their online portal may be required by the Human Resource department and backed by the Legal department - especially if the company has government contracts, even if the role is not funded by a contract, the Legal department may deem it necessary to have all applicants follow a set process.
The role that you are looking for has a defined career path: Associate Product Manager, Junior Product Manager, and then Product Manager. Anyone who has skipped having the titles of Associate PM and Junior PM, probably had the responsibilities of those titles under other titles such as Project Assistant, Assistant to a PM, or similar role in a large organization that managed multiple projects, products, and programs.
Networking is still one of the best ways to find out about job opportunities.
Start by defining what industry of product management you are interested in: fashion, music, medicine, legal, food & beverage, etc.
Most industries have several professional associations. I suggest joining one focused on product management, one focused on the industry that you are interested in, and one that feeds into the industry that you are interested in. Most associations have a sliding scale of membership fees - if you are still in grad school or just a few months out - the membership could be FREE or close to it. Some associations even have trial periods - attend one or two meetings/events (in-person or virtual) to determine if you and the group are in alignment. Try a few and know that at the end of the membership period you can stop being a member to try a different affiliation.
Many associations offer in-person and local chapter memberships. Attend as many as you can. They also offer free resources on their websites. Take in as much information as you can. Connect with article writers from these websites and speakers from chapter meetings on LinkedIn. Build and maintain your network - mentorship, job opportunities, and professional development will be all around you.
Cheering your success!
Starting with your subject line: How To Land Amazing Jobs Without Applying Online?
In 2024, even with a referral from someone at a company, a company's policy that all applicants apply through their online portal may be required by the Human Resource department and backed by the Legal department - especially if the company has government contracts, even if the role is not funded by a contract, the Legal department may deem it necessary to have all applicants follow a set process.
The role that you are looking for has a defined career path: Associate Product Manager, Junior Product Manager, and then Product Manager. Anyone who has skipped having the titles of Associate PM and Junior PM, probably had the responsibilities of those titles under other titles such as Project Assistant, Assistant to a PM, or similar role in a large organization that managed multiple projects, products, and programs.
Networking is still one of the best ways to find out about job opportunities.
Start by defining what industry of product management you are interested in: fashion, music, medicine, legal, food & beverage, etc.
Most industries have several professional associations. I suggest joining one focused on product management, one focused on the industry that you are interested in, and one that feeds into the industry that you are interested in. Most associations have a sliding scale of membership fees - if you are still in grad school or just a few months out - the membership could be FREE or close to it. Some associations even have trial periods - attend one or two meetings/events (in-person or virtual) to determine if you and the group are in alignment. Try a few and know that at the end of the membership period you can stop being a member to try a different affiliation.
Many associations offer in-person and local chapter memberships. Attend as many as you can. They also offer free resources on their websites. Take in as much information as you can. Connect with article writers from these websites and speakers from chapter meetings on LinkedIn. Build and maintain your network - mentorship, job opportunities, and professional development will be all around you.
Cheering your success!
Thank you so much, Latricia!
Usha
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Ushaswini!
## Let's Land You That Product Management Job!
**Understanding your situation:**
* New graduate student
* Interested in Product Management
* Looking for free career mentor
* Budget constraints for career coaching platforms
**Great news!** While paid career coaching can be invaluable, there are plenty of free resources and strategies to help you land your dream Product Management job.
### Building Your Network: The Cornerstone of Success
Networking is often the most effective way to land amazing jobs. Here's how you can start:
* **Leverage Your University:**
* Attend career fairs and industry events.
* Connect with alumni working in product management.
* Participate in student organizations related to product management or technology.
* **Online Platforms:**
* Utilize LinkedIn effectively. Join relevant groups, connect with professionals, and share valuable content.
* Explore platforms like Twitter for industry discussions and connecting with potential mentors.
* **Industry Events and Meetups:**
* Attend product management conferences, webinars, and meetups.
* Engage in conversations with professionals, exchange business cards, and follow up.
### Building Your Skillset and Portfolio
While networking is crucial, you also need to demonstrate your skills and passion for product management.
* **Online Courses:** Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udemy offer free or affordable courses on product management.
* **Personal Projects:** Develop your own product ideas and build a portfolio to showcase your skills.
* **Volunteer:** Contribute to open-source projects or volunteer for organizations to gain practical experience.
### Finding a Mentor
While finding a free, one-on-one mentor can be challenging, there are alternatives:
* **Online Communities:** Participate in product management forums and communities to seek advice and guidance.
* **Mentorship Programs:** Some companies offer mentorship programs for students or early career professionals.
* **Informational Interviews:** Reach out to professionals in the field for informational interviews to learn about their experiences and career paths.
### Additional Tips
* **Target Companies:** Identify companies you admire and research their product management teams.
* **Storytelling:** Develop a compelling story about your career goals and how your skills align with the company's needs.
* **Follow Up:** Always follow up after networking events, informational interviews, or job applications.
**Would you like to delve deeper into any of these areas?** For example, we could discuss how to create a compelling LinkedIn profile, how to prepare for informational interviews, or how to build a strong product management portfolio.
Remember, landing an amazing job takes time and effort. Be persistent, network consistently, and continuously develop your skills.
**Would you like to start with building your LinkedIn profile?**
God Bless You!
JC.
## Let's Land You That Product Management Job!
**Understanding your situation:**
* New graduate student
* Interested in Product Management
* Looking for free career mentor
* Budget constraints for career coaching platforms
**Great news!** While paid career coaching can be invaluable, there are plenty of free resources and strategies to help you land your dream Product Management job.
### Building Your Network: The Cornerstone of Success
Networking is often the most effective way to land amazing jobs. Here's how you can start:
* **Leverage Your University:**
* Attend career fairs and industry events.
* Connect with alumni working in product management.
* Participate in student organizations related to product management or technology.
* **Online Platforms:**
* Utilize LinkedIn effectively. Join relevant groups, connect with professionals, and share valuable content.
* Explore platforms like Twitter for industry discussions and connecting with potential mentors.
* **Industry Events and Meetups:**
* Attend product management conferences, webinars, and meetups.
* Engage in conversations with professionals, exchange business cards, and follow up.
### Building Your Skillset and Portfolio
While networking is crucial, you also need to demonstrate your skills and passion for product management.
* **Online Courses:** Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udemy offer free or affordable courses on product management.
* **Personal Projects:** Develop your own product ideas and build a portfolio to showcase your skills.
* **Volunteer:** Contribute to open-source projects or volunteer for organizations to gain practical experience.
### Finding a Mentor
While finding a free, one-on-one mentor can be challenging, there are alternatives:
* **Online Communities:** Participate in product management forums and communities to seek advice and guidance.
* **Mentorship Programs:** Some companies offer mentorship programs for students or early career professionals.
* **Informational Interviews:** Reach out to professionals in the field for informational interviews to learn about their experiences and career paths.
### Additional Tips
* **Target Companies:** Identify companies you admire and research their product management teams.
* **Storytelling:** Develop a compelling story about your career goals and how your skills align with the company's needs.
* **Follow Up:** Always follow up after networking events, informational interviews, or job applications.
**Would you like to delve deeper into any of these areas?** For example, we could discuss how to create a compelling LinkedIn profile, how to prepare for informational interviews, or how to build a strong product management portfolio.
Remember, landing an amazing job takes time and effort. Be persistent, network consistently, and continuously develop your skills.
**Would you like to start with building your LinkedIn profile?**
God Bless You!
JC.
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1913
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Ushaswini !
So as a graduate student you are interested in obtaining a mentor and I agree with you that it will not be necessary for you to pay money to someone for mentoring. It may seem difficult but once a mentorship connection develops, you'll see that it's great to have waited to find a good one. You also want to apply for jobs but not through employment notices online. That is great and I'd like to give you some advice.
The word "mentor" eventually evolved into meaning something different from the time I was a student and during my first career. Back then, a mentor was someone you met (in person) who you became friends with. You not only received advice and guidance from this kind of mentor, you interacted socially and got together with their family as well and did fun activities. Basically, it was a friendship. They were older professionals. They knew you, knew your concerns and were able to guide you correctly because they themselves were professionals in your field.
Today, the word "mentor" has become business-ized (for lack of a better word) and much is being done online and takes that personalized element out of it. I'm sure some people are choosing that. It may be because that is what is offered and there's really no trend to learn about in person friendship mentoring. That being said, you have a choice today. My mentor/friend and I still connect several times a week till this day and at this point, her support is really priceless. Friendships that last decades are very valuable.
I am not certain, but I think most of the mentoring websites cost a little something, but I would not advise paying any money to have a mentor. That's just my opinion. Keep doing a search and review their websites for any fee/subscription. Also make sure that they are based in your country so they advise you according to the trends in your country. Remember that you can always come to Career Village for advice, but it is not for mentoring. My advice is to start meeting and connecting with people who do what you want to do. Are there companies in your town that do Product Management ? ADPList website says that they are free so it may be worth a try to review their website and see if there is a mentor opportunity offered for Product Management. I left the link to their website for you below. Try your local Chamber of Commerce to inquire about companies to send a resume to and ask about if they know of any mentors for your career subject.
For career counseling, you can try any of your local social services agencies and your local Public Library and inquire there.
You are 34 miles from Chicago where you may be able to find volunteer opportunities or employment through which you may meet your future mentor. You can also return to your undergraduate college and visit their Career Center. That may be a sort of formal, semi-mentoring opportunity. If you do not want to apply for employment online, I will give you some advice about what you can do.
As a graduate student which you have mentioned, you have a wealth of resources right now on your college campus. Spend time on campus and seek opportunities to work on projects with fellow students. You can obtain career counseling at your on-campus Student Center or Career Center. Begin sending your resumes and cover letters regular USPS mail if you do not want to apply for employment on line. Send to all the companies that hire product managers regardless if they have any employment notices or not on their website. It doesn't happen much anymore, but you can still mail hard copies to a prospective employer. Cover a wide area of companies.
As a graduate student, let things happen day by day. You are bound to begin meeting new people and working on projects that will bring you in contact with prospective professionals that could be mentors or give you advice about your career. It's also good to receive advice from a variety of people, too. Something you can obtain right here at Career Village. If information about your career is still not clear to you while in graduate school, make contact with the professors as they can be very helpful.
Wishing you all the best !
ADPList MENTOR WEBSITE https://adplist.org/
So as a graduate student you are interested in obtaining a mentor and I agree with you that it will not be necessary for you to pay money to someone for mentoring. It may seem difficult but once a mentorship connection develops, you'll see that it's great to have waited to find a good one. You also want to apply for jobs but not through employment notices online. That is great and I'd like to give you some advice.
The word "mentor" eventually evolved into meaning something different from the time I was a student and during my first career. Back then, a mentor was someone you met (in person) who you became friends with. You not only received advice and guidance from this kind of mentor, you interacted socially and got together with their family as well and did fun activities. Basically, it was a friendship. They were older professionals. They knew you, knew your concerns and were able to guide you correctly because they themselves were professionals in your field.
Today, the word "mentor" has become business-ized (for lack of a better word) and much is being done online and takes that personalized element out of it. I'm sure some people are choosing that. It may be because that is what is offered and there's really no trend to learn about in person friendship mentoring. That being said, you have a choice today. My mentor/friend and I still connect several times a week till this day and at this point, her support is really priceless. Friendships that last decades are very valuable.
I am not certain, but I think most of the mentoring websites cost a little something, but I would not advise paying any money to have a mentor. That's just my opinion. Keep doing a search and review their websites for any fee/subscription. Also make sure that they are based in your country so they advise you according to the trends in your country. Remember that you can always come to Career Village for advice, but it is not for mentoring. My advice is to start meeting and connecting with people who do what you want to do. Are there companies in your town that do Product Management ? ADPList website says that they are free so it may be worth a try to review their website and see if there is a mentor opportunity offered for Product Management. I left the link to their website for you below. Try your local Chamber of Commerce to inquire about companies to send a resume to and ask about if they know of any mentors for your career subject.
For career counseling, you can try any of your local social services agencies and your local Public Library and inquire there.
You are 34 miles from Chicago where you may be able to find volunteer opportunities or employment through which you may meet your future mentor. You can also return to your undergraduate college and visit their Career Center. That may be a sort of formal, semi-mentoring opportunity. If you do not want to apply for employment online, I will give you some advice about what you can do.
As a graduate student which you have mentioned, you have a wealth of resources right now on your college campus. Spend time on campus and seek opportunities to work on projects with fellow students. You can obtain career counseling at your on-campus Student Center or Career Center. Begin sending your resumes and cover letters regular USPS mail if you do not want to apply for employment on line. Send to all the companies that hire product managers regardless if they have any employment notices or not on their website. It doesn't happen much anymore, but you can still mail hard copies to a prospective employer. Cover a wide area of companies.
As a graduate student, let things happen day by day. You are bound to begin meeting new people and working on projects that will bring you in contact with prospective professionals that could be mentors or give you advice about your career. It's also good to receive advice from a variety of people, too. Something you can obtain right here at Career Village. If information about your career is still not clear to you while in graduate school, make contact with the professors as they can be very helpful.
Wishing you all the best !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Jennifer Village
Consulting
2
Answers
Wheaton, Illinois
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Hello Ushaswini,
It's true that in the long run, you'll need to submit online applications for jobs. However, don't underestimate the power of your personal network - your friends, colleagues, teachers, and so on. They can be a great source of leads for you.
Don't hesitate to ask them to introduce you to people in the Product Management field. Present it as a learning opportunity - you're eager to learn from others' experiences. You'll find that most people are more than happy to set aside half an hour to chat about their career journey and offer you some guidance.
Best of luck on your journey!
It's true that in the long run, you'll need to submit online applications for jobs. However, don't underestimate the power of your personal network - your friends, colleagues, teachers, and so on. They can be a great source of leads for you.
Don't hesitate to ask them to introduce you to people in the Product Management field. Present it as a learning opportunity - you're eager to learn from others' experiences. You'll find that most people are more than happy to set aside half an hour to chat about their career journey and offer you some guidance.
Best of luck on your journey!