How to Build a Target List of Companies

In our last Job Search Accelerator Masterclass, I discussed the importance of implementing a proactive job search strategy rather than relying on the default job search method – i.e. job boards. This is particularly important for ‘non-traditional’ jobseekers who may not be the closest match to the job search criteria and may be automatically screened out by Applicant Tracking Systems.

One way you can take a more active job search approach is by building a target list of companies and then going direct rather than waiting for that perfect job to be advertised online. This puts you in the driver’s seat and allows you to tap into the ‘hidden job market’ by proactively identifying and pursuing opportunities that align with your relevant experience and core skills.

Building a robust target company list isn’t just about casting a wide net—it’s about being intentional and strategic. Savvy job seekers know that having at least 20 target companies is key to unlocking a wide range of opportunities and maximising their chances of success. This approach increases your visibility to potential roles, expands your network, and helps safeguard against the disappointment of placing all your hopes on just a handful of companies.

So, how do you put together that target list?? Here are 10 suggested methods that I will discuss in more detail in the Job Search Accelerator Masterclass on Friday 28th February.

1. Use Google Maps to Find Local Employers

Searching Google Maps for industry terms like “accounting firms” or “digital marketing agencies” in your area can reveal a surprising number of potential employers. Visit their websites, bookmark their careers pages, and make note of their contact details. Employers love the idea of employing people who live locally as they are more likely to stay longer in the role and arrive to work on time! Don’t be afraid to reach out directly and let them know that you live locally.

2. Explore Australia’s Fastest-Growing Companies Lists

Lists like the AFR Fast 100 or the Smart Company Smart50 highlight rapidly growing businesses in Australia. Fast-growing companies are often in hiring mode, presenting exciting opportunities for job seekers.

3. Use LinkedIn for Research

LinkedIn remains one of the best tools for job seekers from a research perspective. By conducting keyword searches, jobseekers can easily identify companies in their location that do the work that they are interested in. Using the many filters offered by LinkedIn allows you to narrow down your job search to find target companies, and more importantly, target people within those organisations.

If your dream employer feels out of reach, look at the career paths of current employees on LinkedIn. What companies did they work for before landing their roles? These organisations can serve as stepping stones, helping you build the right experience and connections to ultimately land your dream job.

Look up people in roles you aspire to and see where they’ve worked. Follow companies of interest and engage with their content to stay on their radar.

4. Leverage LinkedIn’s ‘People Also Viewed’ Feature

When you visit a company’s LinkedIn page, you’ll often see a section titled “People Also Viewed” on the right-hand side. This feature suggests similar companies, helping you discover new potential employers in the same field that you may not have come across previously.

5. Industry Association Membership Lists

Many Australian industry bodies publish member directories. Whether it’s Engineers Australia, the Australian Marketing Institute, or the Australian Computer Society, these lists can help you identify reputable employers in your field that you could reach out to directly.

6. LaunchVic Website

If you are keen to work for a start-up or scale-up, accessing the Launch Vic start-up database will help you identify potential employers who may not be advertising online. This database allows you to filter by sector (i.e. health, education) and provides detailed information about the organisation including growth and number of employees.

7. Local Business Awards Winners

Keep an eye on winners of local business awards, such as those run by the Australian Business Awards or state-based Chambers of Commerce. Recognised companies are often great employers with strong growth potential.

8. Use Boolean Search on Google

Boolean searches help uncover lists of companies within your industry. For example, searching “filetype:pdf list of accounting firms in Melbourne” can surface valuable company directories in your target sector.

9. Employer of Choice Awarded Companies

If a great culture and flexible work options are a priority for you, then check out the Employer of Choice Awarded companies on The Australian Business Awards website or the HRD Australia Best Companies to Work Awards.

10. Research Mergers, Acquisitions, and Investments

Companies undergoing mergers or receiving new investments often ramp up their hiring. Stay informed through financial news websites and business publications such as The Australian Financial Review.

While many job seekers find it easy to name the first five companies that come to mind, building a robust list beyond those initial ideas can feel daunting. It’s common to hit a wall after identifying the obvious choices—but this is where good research comes into play. Expanding your target company list opens the door to new opportunities, broadens your professional network, and increases your chances of landing the right role.

If you want to learn more about implementing a proactive job search method, join me on the 28th of February in the Job Search Accelerator Masterclass.