Outside of academia, the great majority of jobs outside of academia are obtained through networking---i.e., some relationship with someone in the company---especially at the postdoctoral level. That's because all companies would much rather hire someone they know, or someone one their employees knows, than take a chance on someone who is unknown.
More about this in this blog by Joanne Kamens.
Additional tips from Joanne include:
- Getting jobs is about the people you know (those with whom you have an ongoing professional relationship).
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help. “I was wondering if we could have coffee, or chat for a few minutes, as I’d love to pick you brain about …”
- Talk with people to identify common interests (which connect you).
- Think about how you can help the other person (send them a paper, connect them with someone, good tips for finding a certain kind of food, etc.). Keep in mind the Ben Franklin effect, according to which a person who has done someone a favor is more likely to do that person another favor than they would be, had they received a favor.
- No dumb stuff on social media. Use LinkedIn or Research Gate.
- You don’t have to talk to jerks.
- Volunteer is a good way to meet people. You never know!