The Truth About The Hidden Job Market
Written by: Lorraine Rise, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
It's been estimated that at least half of all available jobs are not posted online, creating what is known as “The Hidden Job Market.” Employers often save money by filling open positions internally, or with referrals, rather than paying for job postings on job boards.
For the millions of people who are changing careers, or looking for a new job, understanding how to find these hidden jobs is critical for success. While a strong resume is important, a successful job search is about much more than just a resume, it’s about having the right strategy. The good news is that there are dozens of ways to break into the hidden job market.
How Can You Find Hidden Jobs?
These five strategies will turbocharge your job search and uncover amazing job opportunities that you won't see online:
1. Target the Company, Not Just the Job. In addition to targeting specific jobs that you see online, it’s equally important to target specific companies that you are interested in. This way, you can uncover positions that companies may not have advertised for a variety of reasons. Compile a list of companies that you are interested in and that would value someone with your skills and experience. Then check to see if anyone within your network works there, or knows people who do, and ask for introductions. For the best outcome, aim for a 50/50 approach between targeting companies and jobs.
2. Visit the Company Website. If you're interested in a company, go to their website and see if there is a “Meet the Team” or similar type of page, featuring its leadership. You might even be able to find employee email addresses. Make every attempt to call or email people who work at the companies you’re interested in. Not everyone is going to reply, but that’s okay. The more people you contact, the more likely you are to get a response.
3. Leverage Your Local Chamber of Commerce. Chambers can be a great resource for finding companies in your area that could hire you. You can typically search their database by industry, and quite often they have contact information for the company’s employees. This could be a great way to find more companies to add to the target company list I suggested in step one.
4. Read Industry Blogs and Magazines. Industry-specific publications can give provide ideas about what employers are hot in your industry, and who's hiring right now. This can also give you great ideas for who to add to your target company list and who to reach out to for introductions.
5. Tell Your Friends and Family. This might seem like common sense, but you’d be surprised how many people don't do it. Look close to home and start with the people you know best, because they will be the most willing to help you. Set up coffee chats and one-on-one meetings with people in your social circles. Talk to them about where they work, why they love their job, and if their company is hiring. They may even be able to introduce you to someone they know or recommend you for a position. Remember: if people don’t know that you’re looking for work, they can't help you!
For the best results, use as many of these strategies as you can, and you’ll greatly increase the chances of landing an interview for an amazing job!
Lorraine Rise, Exeutive Contributor Brainz Magazine
From her very first job out of college, Lorraine has built her career on the practice of coaching others to succeed. Lorraine and her team at Career UpRising have served over 400 clients in dozens of industries, both public and private. Many Career UpRising clients come from some of the most recognizable firms in the country including Microsoft, Amazon, Fannie Mae, Coca-Cola, IBM and more.
