Hidden job market

The Hidden Job Market

The hidden job market refers to jobs that are not advertised in the usual ways. These can be jobs that start out as casual or contract , specialist jobs (by referral or reputation), jobs in small /medium businesses, entry level jobs and jobs where 'fit' is more important than existing skill set. Personal recommendations can be very valuable!

Active Career Campaign

Take control of your job search and access the hidden job market by embarking on an active career campaign. Create a spreadsheet or project plan of ideas, goals, steps to take, meetings and outcomes and follow-ups.

You will need:

  • Energy
  • Flexibility
  • Confidence
  • Willingness to explore opportunities

Treat job search itself as if it were your actual job to help you to keep you on track and find motivation for making those calls, seeking out the events etc.

  • Talk your plan over with a mentor or UOW Careers Consultant - once you've started talking about it and developing a plan, it will come to life!
  • Remember, volunteering, internships and involvement in extra curricular activities are all excellent ways to both expand your network, and develop your resume.

How Do You Create Opportunities?

There are five main approaches to use in your active career campaign:


 Find and target employers that interest you.

Research Employers


 Building and maintaining relationships and networks to find hidden jobs.

Networking


 

 Use social media to develop your professional profile.

Social Media


 Entrepreneurial and self-directed jobs.

Design your own job

Make yourself more visible to potential employers

A significant proportion of jobs are not advertised via job websites or recruitment firms. These can be jobs that start out as casual or contract, specialist jobs (by referral or reputation), jobs in small /medium businesses, entry level jobs and jobs where 'fit' is more important than existing skill set.

Take control of your job search and access the hidden job market by embarking on an active career campaign by researching employers, using networking and social media effectively, or designing your own job!

To find out more and learn specific strategies, you can also register for our 'How to: Find work using creative methods' workshop.