Last week, I shared an interview I did with a Minnesota man who got a six-figure job created for him. If you want the short answer, he did the following:

* he built a new network from scratch
* built a list of target employers
* then started having conversations with decision makers who could hire him — following Guerrilla Job Search methods

The following is the answer to an e-mail I just got from “Ted” in New Hampshire. Ted’s question was short and to the point: “How do I identify the best companies to work for?” In Ted’s case, what we’re dealing with here is a lack of clarity. Because, here’s what Ted really means: “I don’t want to have to think to identify the best companies to work for.”

Admit it. You – like me and all humans — hate to think. It takes time. You have to pick and choose. It can give you a headache. And you might make a mistake. But unthinking behavior is a sure way to stay unemployed.

So, let’s re-phrase Ted’s query, because a well-phrased question is half-answered: “What have I not been willing to do to identify the best companies to work for?” That’s better. It’s much easier to answer. In fact, I can think of four things you can do TODAY to find ideal employers:

1) Look at your connections on LinkedIn.

I mean really look. Pick five people you admire, view their profiles, and look for the following:

* Where do they work now? (Could you work there?)
* Where did they work before?
* Who are their clients?
* Who are their competitors?
* Who are their vendors?

Do this for 5, 10, or more people, and you’ll surely find 5-20 prospective employers.

2) Where did you work before?

* Could you work there again? (Don’t snicker — getting re-hired happens every day.)
* Could you work for your former clients?
* Could you work for your former competitors?
* Could you work for your former vendors?

3) What companies are in the news?

Spend 15-20 minutes researching the Business section of your local newspaper, looking for fast, smart, growing companies. Can’t find any? Consider moving (or looking harder).

4) Ask 5 people you admire.

I saved this for last, but it really ought to come first. Because, the more conversations you have, the more people will know about your job search — and the faster you’ll get hired.

So, ask the 5 most-connected people you know for advice.

Tip: Take them all out for coffee, bring a legal pad, take notes. In 30-45 minutes, you’ll surely come away with answers that will shorten your job search. Total cost: Less than $30.