We know LinkedIn gets all the love these days. But what if you don’t want to use it? Maybe you’re tired of the spammy messages. Maybe you value your privacy. Or maybe you just never got into it.
Good news: you can still get hired without LinkedIn — and thousands of people do it every day.
Here’s how to make your move, the non-LinkedIn way:
1. Use Company Career Pages (The Direct Way)
Big companies (and even small ones) often post jobs only on their websites. Bookmark the “Careers” section of companies you love, and check weekly. Set up alerts if they offer that.
Bonus: You’ll skip the competition of job boards.
2. Tap Into Niche Job Boards
Skip the general noise and go straight to niche boards. Some examples:
- Tech jobs: Dice, AngelList, Stack Overflow
- Remote work: We Work Remotely, FlexJobs
- Creative gigs: Dribbble, Behance, Working Not Working
- Nonprofit: Idealist
You’re more likely to find quality leads here, without needing a LinkedIn profile.
3. Referrals Still Rule — Just Ask
LinkedIn isn’t the only way to network. Text a friend. DM an old coworker. Email someone you trust.
Ask:
“Hey! I’m job hunting. Know if your team’s hiring?”
It’s low-pressure and real. Many jobs are still filled through referrals.
4. Craft a Killer Resume + Portfolio
Without LinkedIn doing the talking, your resume and portfolio need to shine.
- Show clear, measurable achievements (like “Increased sales by 32%”)
- Keep it clean, one-page, and PDF
- If you have projects or samples of work — link to them
Your personal site, Google Drive folder, or Notion page can serve as a mini-portfolio.
5. Cold Email Like a Pro
Find the hiring manager’s email (or even the department head) and write a short, punchy email. Keep it human:
Hi Alex, I saw [Company] is growing the [team]. I’ve got 3+ years in X and love what you’re building — would love to apply directly. Who’s best to speak with?
Attach your resume and boom — you’re in their inbox without LinkedIn.
6. Make Google Work for You
Google this:
site:greenhouse.io + “content writer”site:lever.co + “customer success” remote
It’ll show you job postings on popular applicant tracking systems (ATS). It’s like unlocking a hidden job board!
Final Thoughts
LinkedIn is just one way to land a job — not the way. People land their dream gigs through niche boards, referrals, cold emails, and a strong resume all the time.
You’re not missing out — you’re just taking the scenic route.
Keep going, and keep applying. The right job is out there, even if LinkedIn isn’t.