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Much has been written about the hidden job market but many people do not know what it is, why it is important and how to access it.
The Traditional Job Market
We all know the advertised open job market. It is made up of hundreds of job sites and boards, recruitment consultancies and advertisements. It can be a real nightmare for anyone looking for a job to navigate through and is compounded by the current 'dog eat dog' nature of the job market where organisations increasingly call the shots.
 We hear that traditional recruitment agency short lists may be losing importance as many companies decide on candidates from immediate applications and won't wait long. In the fast pace of work today companies don't often invest in developing people or recognise long term potential.
The Hidden Job Market
Up to 85% of the job market is unadvertised and within this 70% of vacancies are classed as hidden. As it is hidden you can spend many hours and the majority of your time chasing the 30% of visible vacancies - an area where thousands of others are also concentrating their time. This makes visible vacancies far more competitive than hidden vacancies, leaving you with less chance of getting the post.
Now you know about this hidden job market, devote the right ratio of time between hidden and visible vacancies and spend more time on the hidden and less competitive vacancies that do exist. In some cases, you may well even be the only applicant.
If you need help preparing your CV, ready for the hidden job market, then use the Gateway CV writing service. |
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Twelve actions to consider, all practical advice you can start using today.
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Network with family, friends and other contacts in your field to find out where jobs are likely to come up, and what
 employers are seeking. Always ask them, as their employer may be looking for people. We cannot undervalue this search method. After that your network may include fellow professionals, past employers and colleagues, or similar people. All networks need to be maintained regularly (even when you're in employment) so that they work effectively for you. Remember if you are over age 40 you must network as this may be the only way you get a job. The broader your network and the more often you access it, the better it will work. If you are new to networking it is not about "give us a job" but "who can you introduce me to?"
- Networking sites. There are many sites. We recommend you develop your profile, use the LinkedIn groups area and tell your contacts what you are doing or looking for. Use facebook for business as well as pleasure. Request a copy of our list of top networking sites.
- Be open and prepared to take any job with your chosen employer as a stepping stone into the sort of work you are seeking.
- Contact employers. Many employers do not advertise but may still have work available. Some may be willing to create a post for the right applicant. Contact them and ask if they have work. Speak to the HR Manager, Recruitment Manager or Human Resources Department. Phone or visit them. If you go there, dress as you would for an interview.
- Get in touch with past employers. They know all about you and your record as an employee and are often more willing to take on someone whose work record they know than someone they don't know.
- Consider short-term contracts, agency work or unpaid work experience, these types of work will give you inside contacts and knowledge of permanent and internal vacancies.
- Try a speculative approach to target employers that you would like to work for. This approach works bests for jobs in the private or not-for-profit
 sectors and in organisations where there is a high turnover of staff. Include a copy of your CV and covering letter. Say if you are available at short notice, or are prepared to consider part-time work or a short term contract. If they don't have any vacancies, ask them to keep your details in case they have any positions in the future. Download an example of a speculative letter.
- Consider approaching small, local companies as well as larger employers in your occupational area. Small firms often don't have the budget for large press advertisements but may need someone with your skills.
- Ask yourself if you could look at self-employment in your chosen field. This may be easier for some professions than others. You may be able to combine part-time work with an employer alongside building up your own contacts and client base. This is known as a portfolio career. Contact
us for details.
- Ask yourself "am I right for Consultancy or Interim?"
- Read the papers - see which companies are expanding, merging, relocating or launching a new product or service. National newspapers contain articles on industries, commercial sectors and specific organisations.
- Research company websites for information about opportunities. Use employer directories - there are a number of ways to source these. Contact us for more information.
Securing your next job in the current market will take time and energy. Career Coaching can help. |
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to your address book or contacts list.
Use Our Speculative Letter
You can download a copy of our speculative letter for free.
CV Writing Tips
Writing a CV isn't easy, read our CV writing tips in the Gateway blog.
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We understand it's tough for graduates. We can also help.
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Have you been successful finding the hidden job market?
What actions can you take to find it?
Join in the Gateway discussion on LinkedIn, led by Peter Wilford. |
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