How to Break Into Target Companies (Without Waiting for a Job Posting)
The Best Roles Aren’t Always Posted. Here’s How to Get on Their Radar Anyway.
If you’re building a job search strategy, chances are you’ve heard the advice:
“Start with your target company list.”
But once you have that list… what do you actually do with it?
Waiting for a role to be posted—and applying like everyone else—is too late in today’s market. Especially in CPG, where companies often rely on internal referrals and quiet networking before a job ever hits LinkedIn.
Here’s how to move from passive to proactive—and build real momentum with your top-choice employers.
1️⃣ Map Who You Already Know
Before you go cold, start warm.
- Search for the company on LinkedIn
- Click “People” to see who works there
- Filter by 1st- or 2nd-degree connections
You may already have someone in your network who can offer insight—or better yet, introduce you to a hiring manager.
💡 Pro Tip: Even if you don’t know someone well, a warm referral is often just one introduction away.
2️⃣ Build a List of Likely Hiring Managers
Don’t just wait for HR to call. Get strategic.
Ask yourself:
- Who would I report to in this role?
- Who would be on my cross-functional team?
- Who’s leading this function at the level above or next to me?
Then use LinkedIn to create a short list of 5–10 contacts you want to learn more about or engage with over time.
📌 These are the people to follow, support, and connect with authentically over time.
3️⃣ Follow the Company on LinkedIn (and Beyond)
Click “Follow” on the company’s LinkedIn page. Why?
✔️ You’ll stay updated on company news and hiring announcements
✔️ It shows up in the recruiter’s view that you’re engaged with their brand
✔️ You may be able to spot leadership changes, launches, and priorities before a role opens
Then take it further:
- Follow the brand’s Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to understand voice, values, and target customer
- Search recent press releases or news mentions to see what's top of mind
You’ll gain valuable talking points—and build familiarity before you reach out.
4️⃣ Let the Company Know You’re Interested via LinkedIn
Not everyone knows about this feature—but it can be helpful.
Go to the company’s LinkedIn page → Click “I’m interested” in the Jobs tab.
Pros:
✔️ Signals interest directly to the employer
✔️ Shows up in recruiter dashboards (especially helpful if you’re not a fit for the current roles but could be for future ones)
Cons:
⚠️ You’ll get general job alerts, not tailored roles
⚠️ It’s a passive signal—so it works best when paired with networking
📝 Use it—but don’t rely on it. It’s a door-crack, not a warm intro.
5️⃣ Follow Functional Leaders (and Click the Bell)
Want to stay plugged into what’s happening in your target function or team?
Follow—not connect—senior leaders in the department or area you want to work in. Then:
🔔 Click the Bell so you’re notified when they post
💬 Engage thoughtfully—like, comment, or share when relevant
📥 When the time is right, message them with a short, respectful note of interest
Following builds familiarity. Connecting with intent comes next.
6️⃣ Set a Job Alert (Just in Case)
Even if you’re not relying on posted roles, it’s still helpful to set up a job alert for your top companies.
How:
- Go to the company’s LinkedIn Jobs tab
- Set alerts based on function and level
✅ This helps you spot new openings quickly
✅ You’ll be ready to act—or reach out—when timing aligns
Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait for Permission to Engage
You don’t need a posted job or a formal referral to start building relationships inside your dream companies.
Your proactive steps today could lead to tomorrow’s conversation—and next month’s opportunity.
You’re not bothering anyone by being curious, informed, and engaged.
You’re showing up as the kind of candidate they want to meet.
Want More Support in Your Search?
Want to build a job search strategy that puts you in the driver’s seat? Connect with me on LinkedIn and mention this blog in your invitation to get your free CPG Job Search Resources guide.
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