Discovering the Hidden Job Market

High unemployment and the competitive job market make it hard to find a job. Fortunately, many job seekers are discovering the hidden job market – the vast array of available jobs that are often off the beaten path. Finding these jobs requires a bit of creativity and knows-how, but with the right resources you can come out ahead of the pack.

What Is the Hidden Job Market?

The hidden job market is comprised of jobs that are not posted on traditional job boards like job search sites, or recruitment websites. These are often jobs within small to medium-sized businesses or jobs within industries that aren’t well-publicized. As a job seeker, it pays to be proactive and seek out these jobs before your competition.

How to Tap Into the Hidden Job Market

It's not always easy to know how to access hidden job opportunities, but there are a few things you can do. Start by talking to people in your network – friends, family, former and current colleagues, contacts within your industry, and others who may have leads on available positions. Additionally, you can use professional sites like LinkedIn to connect with employers and contacts in your industry. Online job boards dedicated to the hidden job market like HiddenJobs and TheMuse can also be useful for uncovering opportunities.

Rethinking Your Job Search Approach

A successful job search today requires a different approach than it did in the past. Instead of relying on applying to postings on job boards, begin thinking about ways to maximize the number of people you can network with and get access to the hidden job market. Focusing on expanding your network can help you discover jobs that may not even be posted publicly yet.

Advantages of the Hidden Job Market

One of the main advantages of leveraging the hidden job market is the opportunity to build more meaningful connections when applying. Instead of a standard application process, you can get to know people who work at the company, find out more about their culture, and ask questions that help you decide if the job is for you or not. Plus, since many of these jobs aren’t posted publicly, you won’t have to compete against as many other applicants.

Contacts Are Key

When it comes to accessing the hidden job market, your contacts are your most valuable asset. Start by expanding your professional network and then make sure you maintain it. Establish relationships with people in your industry and take advantage of job search resources that can help you connect with employers. With the right efforts, you can take advantage of the hidden job market with minimal effort.

The Takeaway

The hidden job market offers many opportunities, but it’s up to you to take advantage of them. Begin by implementing a networking strategy and expanding your professional contacts. Research online job sites, get to know industry professionals, and use resources to your advantage. With the right resources and a proactive approach, you can discover the hidden job market and find that job you’ve been looking for.