It's astonishing nowadays how a majority of hires on the job market aren't even advertised or public for prospective employees to see. These are part of the so-called 'hidden' market, where new employment positions are advertised by word of mouth and within the company itself. This is because it saves employers money and time, while also giving them a feeling of reassurance that referrals from their already existing staff are better than any completely new applicant out there.
However in a time when so many youngsters are striving to find a well-paid job that also suits their personality and aspirations, parents sometimes feel powerless seeing them struggle. This is why we've prepared a list of efficient ways in which youngsters can tap into this hidden job market:
1. Contacting Employers Directly
Many young people seem to miss out on a lot of opportunities by only applying to jobs readily available to them, instead of adopting a more assertive attitude and contacting the companies they're interested in. This certainly isn't an easy feat, since it entails some legwork and a certain degree of risk, especially if it's a company they've always wished to work in. However hope dies last - it really pays to ask the right questions and find out who the hiring manager is.
Once they have this contact, encourage them to fearlessly email or call them in order to introduce themselves and explain how their professional background would contribute to the company's overall well-being. If the desired position is not currently open, but they do make a lasting impression, they will be the first on the most desired candidates list once the job does become available.
2. Attending Trade Shows and Conventions
It's often difficult for younger and less professionally experienced people to find their way into the hidden job market. This is why great advice for them would be to attend at least once a year a major trade show or convention happening in their city or area. There they can make new contacts who can in turn give them tips on unposted jobs or directly refer them for openings.
Additionally they can gain access to growing companies that are going to soon be heavily recruiting for numerous positions. Although there are some costs associated with these trade shows, young people can always attend them and reap the benefits by offering to become volunteers.
Trade shows and conventions typically offer a wide variety of positions, which is why attendants may be inspired to want to get into a new field of work altogether. Once this opportunity arises, they can always sign up for online classes with renowned online portals such as Training.com.au, so they can efficiently brush up on the work field that sparked their interest and later apply for the connected jobs.
3. Connecting With the Right People the Right Way
When it comes to gaining access to the hidden job market, it ultimately all boils down to connecting to the right people. This means connecting with the people that have inside information regarding jobs or with those people that are very well-connected in turn and have a vast network of friends and professional contacts.
Of course this doesn't mean youngsters should go out or keep in touch with people having this ulterior motive in mind. On the contrary. As they develop in their personal and professional lives, it's essential for them to network organically with their peers and like-minded people, keeping their eyes and ears open for any potential opportunities and chances coming their way. This is the healthiest and most efficient way to truly network, which will eventually increase their chances of tapping into the hidden job market as well.
These are only a few ways in which young professionals can actually go beyond the advertised side of the job market and tap into its hidden potential. However with the right attitude and the conviction that finding the right job only takes a bit of exposure and investigation, there is no challenge that can't be overcome. In the end, youngsters need to remember it's all about being open and attentive, going outside the comfort zone and going after what they envision to be possible.
