Networking to Find The Right Fit: Karly Osten’s Job Search Success Story

Karly Osten started her job search the way most people do: by casting a wide net and looking at jobs online. But she started getting better results when she focused her goals and began networking in her field. Here’s Karly’s story of how she overcame obstacles and landed a job as a Paid Search Specialist at Logical Position. 

What do you do for a career? Who do you work for?

My background is general digital marketing; I worked as a project manager for web design and development companies, and most recently was the marketing coordinator for an industrial hygiene and environmental services consulting company. At this current role at Logical Position, I’m really diving into paid search campaigns for Google and Bing.

How long did it take you to find this job?

I’ve been looking since the beginning of 2017, initially for marketing roles in the outdoor retail market. In July and August, I decided to look for something more specific and specialized in marketing. I applied for a job at Logical Position at the beginning of August, met several current employees at the SEM/PDX Rooftop Party mid August, interviewed, and was offered the position mid-September.

How did you find your job? What resources did you use? What tool or tactic helped the most?

I found this job on LinkedIn but really think it helped to meet the employees at the networking event. Other resources included Mac’s List, PDX Pipeline, Indeed, Monster, and attending networking events. I feel that attending networking events helped the most, as I got to meet folks face to face, talk to acquaintances, and learn about roles and different aspects of marketing to determine what would be an ideal fit for me.

What was the most difficult part of your job search? How did you overcome this challenge?

The time it takes to find a job was a struggle! Also, having limited experience in all things marketing instead of specializing in one area. Most people look for years of experience, which can be hard to come by. I overcame this by talking with other marketing professionals about various aspects of marketing, networking like crazy, and trying to learn skills at my previous job in order to increase chances of getting hired.

What is the single best piece of advice you would offer other job-seekers?

Network, network, network! The more people you know, the better your chances are for getting a job, especially in Portland. Go to networking events and do informational interviews with folks in departments or companies you’re interested in working for. Buying someone a $4 cup of coffee can really pay off. People love to talk about themselves and it’s a great way to learn more about the industry. Plus, getting your face in front of people has a longer lasting effect than just seeing your name at the top of a resume. It helps them remember you when they hear about jobs that you are a potential good fit for.

Why do you love your job?

It’s fast-paced, full of young, energetic workers like myself, and is structured in a way that fits me. The company culture is great and, for me, it’s an exciting industry: data-driven but also filled with a lot of ambiguity so you have to be smart and make good decisions.

Want to learn more about Karly? Connect with her on LinkedIn.