BY THOMAS, MENTOR MY JOB GLASSES, STUDENT & SELF EMPLOYED
According to recent reports over 40% of hires are made through the hidden job market. However, only 20% of job seekers are currently positioning themselves on this hidden market.
Although figures may vary depending on the period, the hidden job market is undoubtedly an exceptional opportunity to find a new job, specially when you know how to make the most out of it!
WHAT IS THE HIDDEN JOB MARKET ?
The hidden job market includes all informal channels and methods of job hunting. This implies that the position you are applying for is not promoted openly yet. In this case, you can either send unsolicited applications or put all your efforts in networking.
Believe it or not, networking is a very powerful tool. Let me share with you an example of what can be achieved through networking. At some point of his career, my project management teacher aimed to join a company that had no openings at the time. He decided to become closer to the company through its employees : he started contacting some of them, creating bonds, finding common interests, etc. Then, he reached a Human Ressources specialist among the organisation and send him his resume. His motivation and audacity paid and the recruiter offered him an interview.
HOW TO BUILD AND DEVELOP YOUR NETWORK TO FIND A JOB IN THE HIDDEN JOB MARKET ?
As the saying goes: “Start by loving yourself to love others better”. To build your own network, you must begin by developing your own image: enhancing your skills on social media and creating a “personal branding” (or personal marketing) through your profile is thus common pratice. You will later be able to expand this personal branding when you decide to share your resume with your network.
You must find a consistent speech that represents who you are, as well as the topics, causes and values that are close to your heart. The idea is to make these different elements visible through your description and your activity on social media. This probably sounds like a lot of work, but it’s essential to optimise your job search later on.
Once you have worked on your personal branding, you may start building and developing your network. On LinkedIn, don’t hesitate to create real connections by engaging in conversations about common interests with your contacts. Young people who may be just involved in networking for the first time, mentoring can be really helpful. Online platforms such as My Job Glasses are a great solution to get your foot in the door.
Afterwards, you may announce on social media that you are actively looking for a professional opportunity: the word of mouth will then happen naturally! Don’t hesitate to create a real buzz around your post, add your personal touch and try to stand out from the crowd thanks to eye-catching copywriting!
In addition, let your friends and family know about your job search, ask them to share your profile and recommend you to their own network. These actions will multiply your chances of being hired!
HOW TO INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF BEING HIRED WHEN APPLYING FOR AN OPPORTUNITY ON THE HIDDEN JOB MARKET ?
1. TIMING IS EVERYTHING
The number one criterion for landing on top of the resumes pile: apply at the right time. When a company opens a new role, the recruiter will not wait more than a week to select its first candidates. You should therefore apply as soon as possible!
If the company is not actively looking for employees, it is best to contact them prior to a project starting (generally at the beginning of the year but this is not always the case).
Regardless of the time when you apply, you must keep up with the company’s news (checkout its social media accounts, media outlets, corporate website, etc.):
- Write down the relevant information on Excel or a notes tool
- Make Twitter lists to keep track of company news
- Be bold: do not hesitate to reach out to companies on social media or visit their headquarters to find out about current and future projects.
- Learn more about the company’s DNA, values and challenges!
The aim is to be at the right place, at the right time and have the right arguments when the company most needs a profile like yours.
2. ATTRACTING ATTENTION TO YOUR PROFILE
Applying on the hidden job market does not mean you won’t have competition. You must therefore stand out from the crowd, in particular by drawing attention to your profile and your personality. If you make yourself stand out from the start, you will boost your chances of landing your dream job! You may add an original sentence or quote that describes you well or information about the company to prove you have done your research to your resume, for instance.
3. AN APPLICATION THAT STANDS OUT FROM THE CROWD
Of course, having a well-crafted CV and sensational cover letter is a must when applying for a job. But what is a good CV a great cover letter?
Since you will not be the only candidate, writing an impacting CV and cover letter should be a priority. You can use tools such as Photoshop, InDesign, Canva or CVdesignr to create a unique CV that will help you stand out from the crowd.
Regarding the cover letter, I recommend you to keep this structure in mind: You, Me, Us. Be sure to emphasize the skills and experience specific to the position you are applying for! You can also include a letter of recommendation from your former employer to boost your chances even more.
As you can see, the hidden job market is a golden opportunity to find the job and company of your dreams: open up your field of action and dare to get out of your comfort zone!
Want to learn more about the hidden job market?
Ask all your questions to our committed mentors via My Job Glasses!
