One of the wisest things you can do when searching for a job is learn the best non-traditional job search methods that fit your particular goals. One of my favorite methods is finding, and following up on, what I like to call “corporate growth opportunities.”

The reason this is one of my favorite methods is because it is deeply flattering to the key contact receiving your correspondence and it puts you in a great light. The initiative you show in using this method sets you apart from your competition and positions you as someone your targeted company should definitely talk to.

You can think of growth opportunities as “windows” that occur when a company is experiencing some form of movement or growth. Here are a few examples:

• Corporate moves (headquarters or other office locations)
• Corporate expansions
• The launching or premier of new products or services
• A corporate merger or acquisition
• Awards and recognitions of either the company or an individual in the company
• New rounds of venture capital funding

When a company is experiencing these “windows,” hiring key talent most often follows. So when you find news of companies that are experiencing some kind of movement or growth, it’s an ideal time to make an introduction!

When you introduce yourself (usually via letter – and yes I strongly recommend hard mail), you should begin by stating that the reason you are contacting them is because of the growth they are experiencing. Attach the press release or article you are referencing. This sends a powerful message that you are a positive, smart and assertive person.

You can also include your resume if you wish. I have seen this method work both with and without a resume, as long as your correspondence is followed by a phone call from you. If you don’t send a resume, be sure to include a little about your skills and achievements in your cover letter. Imagine the difference: would they rather receive a letter like the one above, or a “cold” cover letter and resume? Making your first introduction about the company sets a vital tone and pace in a positive direction.

So, if you have been looking for a way to take the sting out of that first followup phone call, you will be glad to find that by using this simple strategy, your first conversations will be easier, more comfortable, and generally flow better.

A few additional benefits you will enjoy when you capitalize on growth opportunities are:

• You set the pace for leadership and control by making the first move, as opposed to answering an ad, which positions you as the less desirable, passive/receiver.
• You maximize your leverage, options and opportunities in your industry of choice.
• You are introducing yourself at a time when that company may be investing considerable sums of money to find great talent (like YOU!).
• You have little or no competition.

Sounds great, doesn’t it? And did you know that you can set up an ultra easy turnkey system to find these growth opportunities that’s just as easy as answering ads on job boards? That’s right. You just have to know a few things about your end goals first. These include:

• Your specific target market
• Your geographical preference
• Any other important points about your dream job (ie: a growing medical device manufacturer on the east coast, or a high tech company that allows telecommuting.

Once you have this basic information, you can use internet resources to find growth opportunities, such as The Business Journals, Google Alerts, article finders, and even associations related to your industry. Another option is to hire a company to gather this initial research for you. Either way, you’ll have the inside line on new “windows” of opportunity.