If you're job hunting — especially for roles in tech, product, or design — you're not just applying for jobs. You're researching, filtering, connecting, and positioning yourself. And truthfully? That part is often harder than the interview itself.

But here's the good news: there’s a process! 

And once you learn to navigate it with clarity, things start to feel a lot less random — and a lot more within your control.

How to Find the Right Companies to Target

Most job seekers make one critical mistake: they look for openings, not opportunities.

But some of the best roles? They’re never posted. They’re unlocked through warm intros, early conversations, and being on someone’s radar before the job even exists.

So first — let’s talk about how to build your company list.

Tools and Platforms to Discover Companies

Use these to build a targeted, high-quality list:

• AngelList – Great for startups, especially early-stage.
• Apollo.io – Helps identify companies and extract contacts.
• Crunchbase (paid) – Advanced search filters like industry, funding rounds, and team size.
• Founder groups & Slack communities – Hidden gems.
• Instagram – Check out "Related Accounts" for competitor discovery.
• App Store – Browse similar apps for tech product teams.
• LinkedIn – Use “People also viewed” and Sales Navigator filters.
• Google – Search "[Company Name] + alternatives" or "Top 10 [Industry] Startups".
• Semrush – Use keyword competitor analysis to uncover rising players.
• Cyberleads – Curated database of fast-growing startups (Angelina will send access).

Don’t Forget Warm Leads

Personalized outreach > cold outreach. Tap into:

• Your existing connections (past coworkers, classmates, mentors).
• Conferences, summits, and online events.
• VC portfolios and accelerator program lists.
• Slack groups or founder collectives.

This list isn’t just about finding openings. It’s about finding companies you’d genuinely be excited to work with — and then finding a path in.

Who Should You Reach Out To?

Once you’ve identified your target companies, it’s time to dig for the right people.

Here’s a simple breakdown of who you should be talking to:

🚪 Primary Contacts

• Recruiters – especially technical or internal recruiters.
• Hiring Managers – typically Leads, Managers, or Directors in your function.
• Other PMs – reach out for casual chats or inside intel.

🤝 Secondary Contacts

• People you already know inside the company.
• People connected to someone at the company (for warm intros).
• Alumni from your school or past workplaces.
• Community members or mutuals in your niche.

Pro Tip: Don’t underestimate reaching out before a job is posted. You’re not asking for a job — you’re opening a door. That’s a much easier yes.

How to Reach Out (Without Being Spammy)

Okay, you’ve found the right people. Now what?

Step 1: LinkedIn Connection Request

• Keep it short and relevant.
• Mention mutual interests, background, or admiration for their work.
• Always include a note.

“Hi [Name], I’ve been following your team’s work at [Company] and would love to connect. I’m currently exploring new product roles and admire the direction your team is heading in.”

Step 2: Message After They Accept

Send a thank-you and soft intro message. Make it personal, not pitchy.

“Thanks for connecting! I’ve been exploring companies focused on [theme/mission] and would love to learn more about your work at [Company] sometime if you're open to a quick chat.”

Step 3: Follow-Up (Yes, You Should)

Some folks rarely check LinkedIn — that’s where email comes in.

If they haven’t replied after a few days, send a thoughtful email (not just a copy/paste version of your message). You can follow up up to 8 times — respectfully, of course.

How to Find Their Email (Ethically)

Here are a few tools that make this part easier:

🧰 Email-Finding Tools

• RocketReach (Chrome Extension) – Great for personal emails.
• Apollo.io – Good for business emails.
• GetProspect
• Lusha
• Kaspr
• LeadiQ
• Datagma
• Email Permutator – Use for logical email guesses if needed.
• Lemlist Chrome Extension

Note: Always cross-check with LinkedIn profiles and company formats to verify accuracy.

Final Thoughts: This Is a Process, Not a Sprint

Finding the right company and contact isn’t just about job searching — it’s about relationship-building.

When you reach out with genuine interest (not just "Hey, any openings?"), you stand out. When you build a list based on aligned values, not just posted roles, you feel more grounded. And when you follow up like a pro, you don’t just apply — you build your network for life.

Your Action Plan

Choose 20–30 companies from the discovery tools above.

Identify 2–3 contacts at each using LinkedIn and warm leads.

Reach out with a personal note.

Follow up via email if needed — don’t give up after one try.

Looking to build your outreach message template or email follow-up strategy next? Drop me a message — I’ll break it down in Part 2.