Create a Target Company List Before You Start Networking

When most people think about networking in a job search, they picture telling friends and family, “Hey, let me know if you hear of anything.” That’s a start, but unfortunately, it won’t get you very far.

Before your network can truly support you, you need to point it in the right direction. One of the most powerful (and most overlooked) steps in a job search is creating a Target Company List. This is a curated group of 10-25 organizations that align with your values and career goals.

Why a Target List Matters

Too many job seekers keep things vague. They cast a wide net and hope something sticks. But vagueness leads to burnout and distraction in your job search, and potentially misaligned job offers that leave you job hunting again six months later.

A target list helps you stay grounded in what you actually want and allows others to help you more effectively. It also sharpens your internal clarity. When you start naming what you’re looking for (company size, industry, culture, location) it creates focus. You’re not limiting yourself. You’re prioritizing.

How to Build Your Target List

Here are a few resources and strategies I recommend:

• Google: Try searches like “Best places to work in [industry] in [city/region].”

• ReferenceUSA: A free database available through many public libraries that lets you search companies by location, industry, and more.

• LinkedIn:

  • Use the Companies filter in the search bar.

  • Explore company pages for related organizations through “People also viewed” or “People also follow.”

• AI Prompts, such as:

  • “Top [industry] companies in [location] with short descriptions"

  • “Competitors to [company name]”

  • “Compare [company] with competitors on culture, innovation, and growth”

As you discover companies that spark your interest, add them to a spreadsheet or tracking tool. Jot down what excites you about each one, and note any contacts you have (or want to make) there.

Why It Works

A target list helps you focus your search and it makes networking far more effective. Instead of asking, “Do you know of any jobs?” you can say, “Do you know anyone at these companies?” That level of specificity gives your contacts something to work with and dramatically increases the chances of a meaningful connection or lead.

Next Step: Activate Your Power Circle

Once you’ve built your target list, the next step is to start networking in a way that actually works, beginning with the people who already know, like, and trust you. Next week I’ll walk you through how to identify and reach out to your Power Circle: the trusted folks most likely to offer support and introductions in your search.

Have questions? Not sure where to start? I’d love to help—feel free to reach out! Schedule a Discovery Call with me here.

Thank you to Career Thought Leaders for many of the ideas shared in this post.