The Hidden Job Market
Studies reveal that many employers choose not to publicly advertise job openings, often to save time and money. However, there are various strategies you can use to tap into the ‘Hidden Job Market.’ Typically, it’s most effective to apply several of these approaches simultaneously.
Research
Before starting, it’s crucial to do some research and pinpoint the types of roles you’re truly interested in. Start by creating a list of target employers—use industry websites, databases, and company pages to gather valuable insights.
Networking
Networking is about building relationships and connections with others. Identify contacts through networks you already belong to begin with.
Start building your professional network:
- Use your network: Let everyone know you're job hunting and what you're seeking. Brainstorm with family and friends and list contacts who can help.
- Build your online presence: Create a LinkedIn profile, join relevant groups, and engage in discussions. Use the Alumni network to connect with La Trobe graduates in your target roles or companies.
- Join a professional association: Check to see if there is a professional association related to your discipline (visit the Graduate Careers Australia website, use Google or ask your lecturers). Join as a student member, get involved and network! Also check if any relevant groups exist on campus.
- Conduct some informational interviews: An Informational interview is a one on one conversation with an individual who has a job you might be interested in doing or who works in an industry or company you hope to enter. See the Informational interviews page for more information.
Make an impression
When asked to talk about yourself in a networking situation, you should be able to talk clearly about who you are, what you do, and what value you bring.
Develop a 60 second impression (sometimes called an ‘Elevator Pitch’). We have developed a Career Ready Essential Webinar on how to ‘Build Your Elevator Pitch’.
Find a mentor
The Industry Mentoring Program connects students with Industry based professionals, including La Trobe Alumni.
Many Professional Associations also run mentoring programs. The Career Ready Advantage Award includes opportunities for Mentoring, Volunteering, Internships and short courses aimed at increasing student employability.
Volunteering
Volunteering can not only help build your network but is also beneficial for enhancing your skills and assisting with learning about the organisation or industry you want to work in.
Directly approach employers
Directly approaching an employer without a referral is called cold calling. Warm calling is if you have been referred by someone in your network. When cold calling it is important to contact a person who can help you, rather than an untargeted approach. The organisation’s website or LinkedIn may help.
Learn about Approaching employers.
Recruitment agencies
Employers often pay a recruitment agency to find appropriate personnel to fill staffing vacancies. Find out which recruitment agencies specialise in placing people in your discipline. Search for an agency on the Recruitment and Consulting Services Association website or through a Google search, or visit the job boards page.
Final tips
Finding a job, particularly in the hidden market, requires good research and preparation. To be successful in accessing the ‘Hidden Job Market’ you need to be both persistent and resilient.
Don’t aim only for your ‘ideal’ job or assume the job you find will be the ideal one. Be flexible and see each job as an opportunity to build your skills and experience and develop your network
Review your job search actions on a regular basis to identify what is and what is not working. Contact the Employability Programs Team if you need help (available up to one year after you graduate).