Find the Hidden Job Market

A typical job search has likely found you wondering why there are not more positions available. Yet, the reality is that there are many more jobs; they are just hidden. That is correct, hidden. There is a hidden job market that is just waiting for you to find, crack in, and start your dream job. The hidden job market consists of jobs that are never formally posted. The majority of hiring managers are more inclined to hiring an individual within the organization rather than outside. In addition, the long process of approving funding for recruitment as well as drafting and posting job openings often leads to positions being filled before they are even able to be posted on a job board. Hiring managers often reach out to their network first, meaning most jobs are filled by word of mouth. This hidden job market may seem intimidating, but not to worry. We have the ultimate guide you need to cracking the hidden job market. Identify Your GoalsrnBefore you start navigating your way through the hidden job market, you must know where you currently are and where you want to go in your career. Identify the specific type of jobs you are looking for as well as individual companies where you would like to work. rnFocus on NetworkingrnSince most jobs are filled by word of mouth, your best way of landing a job is through networking. This process is two folded; it consists of reaching out to your existing network and then seeking to grow your network. First, you should inform friends, family, and previous colleagues of your job search. Update your LinkedIn and other professional networking tools to reflect your jobs search. Then you should seek to grow your network. Consider joining professional network groups. Local groups can be found through local organizations, such as your Chamber of Commerce, library, and local newspaper. There are also nationwide groups, which you can find through online search engines and LinkedIn. When doing this, always remember the first rule of networking; give back. Share information with other members that may be beneficial to them. Start Cold CallingrnCold calling is a proven method of job searching that is even more effective in today’s job market. Now that you have identified companies that you would like to work for, reach out to hiring mangers through email or phone calls with a persuasive request for an interview. These individuals are always looking for new talent even if they are not currently hiring. Then when a job becomes available, they are likely to think of you. Search Internal Job BoardsrnMany companies have internal job boards where openings are posted before they are made public. Use your network contacts at the organization, research the company website, and utilize search engines to find these job boards. Once you have identified them, check these job boards regularly for job openings that you can apply for directly. Create Your Own JobrnNow that you are connected to the company you want to work for, you can create your own job. Identify a problem that they are unaware of and develop an effective solution. Now that this area has come to their attention and you have already shown that you can fulfill their needs, they might just take you on board. Now that you have found the hidden job market and cracked its code, you can reap the many benefits. Not only will you find more openings, but you will also have less competition when applying. If you are cold calling you are likely to have no competition, in addition, if you have learned about the opening through word of mouth, you have very little competition. So what are you waiting for? Start searching the hidden market and you will be in your dream job before you know it.