After applying several firms without referrals (and not receiving replies), I have understood the importance of referral. However, in several firms I am planning to apply, after doing a thorough search on Linkedin, I still couldn't find any alumni or employees who have some sort of connection with me.
My question is - what could I do to build up a connection and transfer to referral in a short period of time? I have thought of a few options:
1. Alumni working in the firm but based in another region (not sure whether the referral works or not)
2. Directly sending email to very senior guys (principal or partners) who specialize in the industry that I've worked for but have zero connections with me.
3. Send separate application emails to the "recruitment mailbox"
Would like to hear your thoughts. Any suggestions/options? Thank you so much!