Are you spending all your time scrolling through online job boards and hitting “Apply”? You might be missing out on the best opportunities. It’s estimated that up to 70% of jobs are never publicly advertised. This is the “hidden job market,” and it’s filled through referrals, networking, and direct outreach.
So how do you access it? You have to be proactive.
- Activate Your Network: This is your most powerful tool. Let former colleagues, managers, and professional contacts know you’re exploring new opportunities. Don’t just ask for a job; ask for information and advice. A simple message like, “Hi [Name], hope you’re well. I’m currently exploring new roles in [Your Field] and was wondering if I could get your advice on companies I should be looking at?” can open many doors.
- Conduct Informational Interviews: Identify people who have jobs you find interesting at companies you admire. Reach out and ask for a 15-minute chat to learn more about their role and their company’s culture. This is a low-pressure way to build connections, gain insider knowledge, and get on their radar for future openings.
- Target Companies Directly: Make a list of 5-10 companies you’d love to work for, even if they aren’t hiring. Follow them on LinkedIn, engage with their posts, and connect with people in relevant departments. When a position does open up, you’ll already have a foot in the door.
Tapping into the hidden job market requires more effort than simply applying online, but the payoff is huge. It puts you in a much smaller pool of candidates and allows you to build genuine connections that can advance your career for years to come.