How to Get Your Foot in the Door (Even When It Feels Locked Shut)

Look Beyond the "Apply Now" Button: The Power of People

The old saying, "It's not what you know, it's who you know," is only half true. It’s actually about who knows what you can do. Networking isn't about schmoozing at stuffy events; it's about building bridges.

Leverage Your Existing Circle

You know more people than you think. Start with friends, family, past colleagues, and university alumni. Let them know what you’re looking for. You’re not asking them for a job; you’re asking for information and introductions. A simple, “Hey, I’m looking to get into the marketing field. Do you know anyone who works in that area I could chat with for 15 minutes about their experience?” can work wonders.

Informational Interviews Are Gold

An informational interview is a casual conversation with someone in a field or company that interests you. It’s your chance to ask questions, get insider advice, and make a memorable impression without the pressure of a formal job interview. People generally love to talk about their work, and you’ll walk away with invaluable insights.

Build Your Experience Brick by Brick

If you have no formal work experience in your desired field, you need to get creative. Experience doesn’t always come with a salary.

1. Volunteer or Intern: Non-profits and startups are often hungry for help. Offering your time shows initiative and allows you to build a portfolio of real-world work. An internship, paid or unpaid, is a structured way to do the same.
2. Freelance: Platforms like Upwork or Fiverr allow you to take on small projects. If you want to be a writer, write. A coder? Code a small app. This creates tangible proof of your skills.
3. Take the "Foot-in-the-Door" Job: Sometimes, the best way in is through a side door. An administrative or support role within your dream company can be a stepping stone. Once you’re inside, you can learn the business, network internally, and be first in line when your ideal position opens up.

Craft an Application That Can't Be Ignored

When you do find that perfect opening, a generic application will get you nowhere. You need to show the hiring manager that you are the solution to their problem.

Your resume isn't just a document; it's your marketing brochure. For every application, you must highlight the skills and experiences—even the volunteer or freelance ones—that directly relate to the job description.

If you're struggling to make your experience shine, using a professional tool can be a game-changer. A platform like Resumost helps you structure your achievements and tailor your application for each specific role, ensuring you put your best foot forward every time. It’s about presenting your unique story in the most compelling way possible.

Think Like a Detective, Not Just a Job Seeker

The best opportunities are often the ones that aren’t even advertised.

• Make a Target List: Identify 10-15 companies you’d love to work for. Follow them on LinkedIn, engage with their content, and get to know their brand.
• Send a Speculative Application: Find the contact information for the head of the department you want to join (LinkedIn is great for this). Send a polite, concise email introducing yourself, explaining why you are passionate about their company, and attaching your tailored resume. The worst they can do is ignore it; the best they can do is create a role just for you.

Getting your foot in the door isn't about having a magic key. It's about persistently and cleverly trying all the locks. By combining authentic networking, creative experience-building, and laser-focused applications, you’re not just waiting for an opportunity to appear—you’re creating it yourself.