5 Ways to Reach Hiring Managers Directly (and Get Noticed)

Skip the Gatekeepers

HR departments and job boards are designed to filter candidates. If you want to stand out, go directly to the people making hiring decisions.

Here are 5 proven ways to reach hiring managers:

The Approach: Find the hiring manager on LinkedIn and send a connection request with a personalized note, followed by a value-driven message.

Pro Tip: Engage with their content first. Like and comment on a few posts before reaching out - it warms them up.

The Approach: Find their work email (using tools like Hunter.io or the company's email pattern) and send a concise, value-focused email.

Pro Tip: Keep it under 150 words. Long emails don't get read.

The Approach: Many hiring managers are active on Twitter. Follow them, engage thoughtfully with their tweets, and eventually slide into DMs.

Pro Tip: This works especially well for startup roles where founders are more accessible.

The Approach: Check if you have any shared connections on LinkedIn. Ask for a warm introduction.

Pro Tip: Make it easy for your connection - write a blurb they can forward.

The Approach: Attend industry events where hiring managers speak or network. Introduce yourself in person.

Pro Tip: Follow up within 24 hours with a LinkedIn connection and brief email.

Regardless of the channel, your message should:

Be specific about why you're reaching out

Show knowledge of their company/work

Offer value, not just ask for a job

Make a small ask (quick call, not a job offer)