Hidden Jobs Market

What is The Hidden Jobs Market?

Finding the perfect job can often prove difficult, especially during busier times. But there may be more out there than first meets the eye.

There is something we call the ‘hidden jobs market’, which is said to make up between 50-80% of the employment landscape.

Essentially, these are open vacancies that aren’t publicly advertised, and there are many reasons for it.

As we know, recruiting can cost businesses a lot of money, so a lack of budget can result in firms utilising internal employment options initially to save some pennies. Especially, when the perfect candidate could be right under an employer’s nose.

To do this, they may wish to explore their internal pool of talent or utilise an in-house referral scheme through their existing employees. Two recruitment methods that can prove useful in returning high-quality candidates for less.

Or perhaps they are launching a new service or opening a new branch they don’t want anyone to know about it. The list could go on.

How Do You Access Jobs that aren’t advertised publicly?

‘Hidden’ may suggest these jobs aren’t very easy to find, but in some cases, these roles can prove easier to obtain.

Most of the roles found through the hidden jobs market are generally done through networking, rather than traditional job searching methods like through a jobs board, or careers page.

So, with fewer people knowing about them, there is often less competition and fewer formalities, especially having gotten through the process with an internal contact. And in this case, you may not even be required to supply further references.

Here are our tips on how to access hidden jobs:

Networking

Networking is key. So, the more people you interact with, the better. After all, how many times have you heard the phrase, it’s not what you know, it’s who you know. Attend as many networking events as possible like careers fairs, conferences, or formal events either in person (COVID permitting) or online.

You should also reach out to your current connections, whether they be alumni or on LinkedIn. You may be able to get some advice on the market or be pointed in the direction of some available roles. You never know how useful these connections may prove, if not now, in the future. It’s also worth exploring your connections in less professional environments, i.e., with your friends, family, or ex-colleagues. They may be able to help you or know someone who could.

Social Media Platforms

Social media is a great place to search for work. To do so efficiently, you want to make sure your profiles are up to date and relevant to the jobs you are wishing to seek. And if suitable with your current circumstances, make it clear that you are open to work. Then keep a close eye on potential employers. Accessing the hidden jobs market does take some initiative, so you need to put yourself forward if you foresee an opportunity somewhere. You may spot a company outsourcing jobs which you are skilled in or perhaps a new business has just launched and needs support in their expansion. They may need a quality candidate as much as you require a job.

Contact Employers Directly 

Don’t be afraid to contact employers directly. If there’s a particular company you’re interested in working for, you don’t have to wait for them to advertise a job opening. You can always try reaching out to them regardless, either by visiting their office, making a cold call, or sending a letter of interest. The aim is to show how passionate you are to work for them, while asking if they have any open vacancies available now or in the future. They might just happen to be making a move around as you call. Even if there are no opportunities at that time, if one were to arise, you’ve already made a good first impression.

Be Active in Your Field

Show how committed you are to your specialism by being active in your field. Create discussions on current topics, take up extra activities, complete new training courses, or share relevant content and so on. By being active in this way, you improve the chances of being noticed, and you might well make those all-important connections we discussed. A candidate who is active and up to date with the industry’s goings-on is far more desirable to an employer. And you can use it as an opportunity to discuss your search for work without having to say, ‘hire me’. Think of it as an opportunity to build your personal brand.

Seek Voluntary Experience

Gaining further work experience is a great way to get your foot in the door. You can build internal relationships and express your interest in working for them permanently while proving how valuable you could be. And if you make a good first impression you could be offered a permanent position on the spot or be a consideration for the future. Even if the company turns out not to be what you were looking for, there is still new skills, knowledge, and experience gained. 

Sign Up for Job Alerts

Never forget to sign up for job alerts! By signing up for a company’s job alerts, you can be notified via email as soon as an open position goes live. This allows you to act quickly when a suitable role opens. Many companies offer this service via their career’s website. Do this, while interacting with them on social media and keeping up to date with their general goings-on.