Finding the Names of Hirers

By Marty Nemko

What's the lifeblood of any job search? Names--the names of people with the power to hire you. But how do you find those names? Yes, you can use your personal network, but there's often a more direct approach: the switchboard operator. Just say, "I really need your help. Who's the person in charge of (sales, marketing, whatever your target). After getting the name, say, "And her email address? And phone number? Thanks so much." Phone calls to switchboard operators give you a guaranteed up-to-date list of potential employers.