1. Yes it's better to get any job BUT do keep searching and never stop just tone down how much time you spend looking (i.e no job=full-time into applying, interviewing then with job=part-time into applying, interviewing) If you are fortunate to not worry about finances, then by all means continue searching.
2. Yes reach out directly. Getting into the thoughtstream of managers can enhance your chances of getting a job (managers can and will be very busy, they forget things every now and then so reaching out is essential)
3. Everyone working in the area you want to be in. If you know a company working in X and you like X, reach out to those who are working for X and let them know who you are, why you are contacting, and ask them about their time/experience in X. Do not be afraid to reach out, the worst you get is a no. Rejection is better than nothing in the game of hiring.
Below is additional notes that helps me through the game of hiring and looking for jobs.
Take time to reflect and think about the pre-existing advantages you have. Then again reflect and think about the UNFAIR advantages you have. Unfair advantages are the very things you may take for granted that others would consider unfair. These things may, can and will be things that you will completely overlook so here's some examples:
- US Citizen, you should know this but if you don't there people going through laborous and painful undertakings just to have the same priviliges that you have as a US Citizen. Visas are dime a dozen and getting to a position to be given/apply for a visa is getting harder and harder.
- Alumni of university/college/high school that has any notoriety in tech, engineering, finance (or even any form of notoriety as long as its positive!)
- Network from university/college/high school/church/weekend rec league/hometown/current residence. Believe it or not a familiar face and name can lead into an interview and/or a job. There's probably people who like you for no other reason than the fact that they associate with you and remember you (vice versa applies too but we're talking positives here)
- Skill in highly specific niche that not entirely popular or "mainstream". If you have a skill and/or experience doing something in a niche this is beneficial for your chances as you can land an interview and form connections that can lead to more (network, interview, job, association, business)
- If you can and are willing to pack your bags and move across city/county/state/even country lines, you can increase your chances in landing an interview/job. If not disregard this
- There's a higher chance because you're a new grad, you'll be given leeway and are seen as a "cheaper" resource for the business. Understand this and use it. Shop your offers when you have them and if not say you do. Just cause its a downturn economically does not mean you need to experience a downturn in your personal economics
- Contact anyone and everyone you know and let them know you are looking for work. Mention it indirectly in communication for better effectivity
Below is additional notes that helps me through the game of hiring and looking for jobs. Take time to reflect and think about the pre-existing advantages you have. Then again reflect and think about the UNFAIR advantages you have. Unfair advantages are the very things you may take for granted that others would consider unfair. These things may, can and will be things that you will completely overlook so here's some examples:
- US Citizen, you should know this but if you don't there people going through laborous and painful undertakings just to have the same priviliges that you have as a US Citizen. Visas are dime a dozen and getting to a position to be given/apply for a visa is getting harder and harder.
- Alumni of university/college/high school that has any notoriety in tech, engineering, finance (or even any form of notoriety as long as its positive!)
- Network from university/college/high school/church/weekend rec league/hometown/current residence. Believe it or not a familiar face and name can lead into an interview and/or a job. There's probably people who like you for no other reason than the fact that they associate with you and remember you (vice versa applies too but we're talking positives here)
- Skill in highly specific niche that not entirely popular or "mainstream". If you have a skill and/or experience doing something in a niche this is beneficial for your chances as you can land an interview and form connections that can lead to more (network, interview, job, association, business)
- If you can and are willing to pack your bags and move across city/county/state/even country lines, you can increase your chances in landing an interview/job. If not disregard this
- There's a higher chance because you're a new grad, you'll be given leeway and are seen as a "cheaper" resource for the business. Understand this and use it. Shop your offers when you have them and if not say you do. Just cause its a downturn economically does not mean you need to experience a downturn in your personal economics
- Contact anyone and everyone you know and let them know you are looking for work. Mention it indirectly in communication for better effectivity
- Position yourself to be seen as high value.
Use every advantage you have.