Ambitious companies rely on NextRoll, a marketing technology company, to deliver products to grow their business. Powered by machine learning and integrated data platforms, NextRoll’s technology serves tens of thousands of clients globally, and it’s really fun to be part of a company that is growing and supports the development of its team members.

If you’re looking for opportunities in technology industries, whether you’re a seasoned techie or trying to break into the industry, here are a few tips to help you find your next role. Also, check out Clauda Villanueva’s article: How to Gear Your Resume for a Career in the Tech Industry.

Who Do You Know?

I’ll say it loud for the folks in the back: If you’re not leveraging the people you’ve met along your personal and professional journey, you’re missing out! Your network is full of folks who will advocate for you when you aren’t in the room. Why? Because they know you! Perhaps you’ve worked together as peers or vendor stakeholders. They know your skills and attributes and can help you shine when you’re trying to make a new connection.

Your network may include people who can refer you to specific jobs at their company. Before applying to a role, see who you already know at that company and ask them the best way to pursue it. Take inventory of the companies where your connections work. Do any of them meet your interests in the Tech sector? Make a list and start with those organizations.

Referrals have a higher chance of going to offer, and many organizations consider referrals as a top option for yielding a better ROI. Recruiters place heavy emphasis on candidates who are introduced as referrals.

Some organizations even require recruiters to respond to referrals. At NextRoll, we place high value on employee referrals. We even host fun referral contests where employees can earn prizes on top of standard-offered cash bonuses for any referrals who are hired. So when you think about it, you’re also helping out your network contacts by having them refer you in!

Whether you are sending an email with your resume attached or an individual text message, make sure you tap into your network first. There is likely a sea of people who want to help you, and if they aren’t the right person to tap for a specific role, they'll be happy to get you to the right person.

Job Platforms

Once you’ve exhausted your network, source for jobs on the many job platforms available. We categorize the different sites into two types of platforms - the “big hitters” and specialty sites.

Big hitters are platforms where companies post their open positions, such as LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, and ZipRecruiter. Many of these sites integrate with employer applicant tracking systems (ATS), so jobs automatically post to these platforms. You are also able to create job alerts so you’re notified when new roles in your target function or company are posted. Employers will use some platforms and not others, so don’t limit yourself to just one, tap into all of them.

Specialty sites can focus on providing opportunities for specific skill sets such as Stack Overflow (software developers) or Rainmakers (sales). Others have a focus on diverse talent communities, such as Jopwell. Built In and AngelList are other specialty sites focused on startups and tech companies.

Networking Opportunities

Sales people are known to say, “Always be closing.” Recruiters have a similar saying, “Always be networking.” Whether you are actively looking for a new role or not, it’s good practice to connect with people with whom you share common experience or interests, and to help others when opportunities present.

LinkedIn is the best place for online professional networking. There are search features that allow you to locate the right person or group. While it’s advisable to request an introduction through a second-line connection, it’s okay to send a cold message to someone to express your interest in connecting or in a role.

There are also Groups on Facebook people can join to learn about roles and to network. Slack is another communication platform many companies use, however folks can join from a personal account and seek out different Groups based on their interests.

If you’re looking for other opportunities to network, a quick search on Google, LinkedIn, or Facebook may net you some surprising results. Many groups could be local to your geographic area and will afford opportunities for in-person networking, which is a great way to stand out!

When you’re sourcing a job within Tech sectors, don’t limit yourself to one method or platform as each has its benefits. Leverage your network and keep track of your applications and progress along the way.