Accessing the Hidden Job Market

The hidden job market refers to a range of job opportunities that aren't typically advertised publicly. Employers in the hidden job market typically wait to receive resumes from qualified applicants who have networking connections or word-of-mouth to learn about the openings. Below are some tips that can help you access the hidden job market and increase your chances of becoming employed.

Create a Network

Find and develop relationships with people who have experienced working in their organizations or in the same field you are interested in. Connecting with the people in different industries and from various backgrounds will be useful for getting access to the hidden job market. Stuck with how to connect? Attend professional events, join a LinkedIn group, or even introduce yourself to anyone you think can provide valuable advice.

Tap Into Your Network

Once you have a network of contacts, it's time to start using it. Reach out to them and introduce yourself, while also expressing your job goals and aspirations. If you can't reach them the traditional way, you can use social media to make a subtle introduction. You can also ask about new opportunities that are in or will be in the market, as well as specific companies you'd like to work for. If possible, arrange for informational interviews or a casual coffee catch up with someone who works in your field of interest.

Research Companies

In order to get a job in the hidden job market, it's important to understand the industry of your choice, including the companies that are part of it. Start researching the companies of your interest and locate their contact person who might be in charge of hiring in your respective field. Once you have a contact person, you can start reaching out and let them know of your qualifications and interests.

Make Use of Job Sites

Make use of job search sites or aggregator platforms to access the industry-specific job postings. These are typically the places where employers post their hidden jobs. You can also make use of social media platforms such as Facebook’s new job search feature or LinkedIn’s job search tool to find and apply for the right opportunities.

Follow Up

Most recruitment processes take time, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t get an immediate response. Once you have sent your resumes or applied to jobs, make sure to follow up with the employer in a week or two. Additionally, consider getting in touch with someone in the company to ask about the status of your application. Make sure to be persistent and polite when following up.

Take Advantage of Alumni Networks

Make sure to connect with your school alumni network and follow the members. It’s likely that they will be aware of the current job offerings and may be able to connect you with recruiters or hiring managers in their respective companies.

Conclusion

Reaching the hidden job market can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can quickly access the best job opportunities. Networking is key, as it provides access to new contacts who might give you opportunities. Additionally, make use of job search engines and alumni networks to find and apply for the right job postings. Finally, make sure to be persistent and never give up when applying for a job – good luck!