I was a member of the YMCA and I would constantly check their job posting because I enjoyed the atmosphere there so much. Eventually a marketing position was listed and I spoke directly to what would become my direct supervisor's supervisor about the best way to apply. A friend of mine was considering joining the gym and I just happened to offer to show them around (a major part of the job) because the staff was busy at the time.
I applied and many members of the staff that I had gotten to know referred by to the manager. I was offered an interview a few days later. They called me a few hours later to offer me the job.