Small employers hiring around Portland - what worked for you?

Two small Portland employers told me they are hiring but have not posted yet. I have been trying to stay organised about it. They like a brief email with a résumé. Should I visit in person?

Small employers often hire on recommendation. Ask neighbours, former co-workers and your library.

A short email with two sentences about what you can do and your résumé attached worked for me. I followed up after a week.