How to crack the job market when 70% of vacancies aren’t listed

JOB hunting often feels like a daunting task, especially when faced with pages of listings and the uncertainty of where to start.

And what if you found out that the pool of job listings that already seems so vast does not even make up 50 per cent of the job market? Indeed, it might surprise you to learn that some 70 per cent of job opportunities lie hidden, either accessible only within companies’ internal networks or designed for candidates discovered through networking.

How, then, does one break into this hidden job market and land opportunities that are shielded from the public eye?

1) Research, research, research

The first step in conquering the hidden job market is research. Start by going through industry reports, company websites, job boards, and local business publications. Understand your needs, and the needs of the companies you are applying to. To stand out in the digital crowd, you can also familiarise yourself with keywords associated with your desired role.

You should also opt for online learning platforms, CV builders, and cover letter templates to ensure you are on the right track. Optimise your search results by incorporating specific keywords related to your field into your applications and online profiles.

And of course, never underestimate the power of social media – platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram provide a window into the professional lives of those in your desired field. Analyse profiles of people in similar roles, understanding the skills and experiences that make them successful so you can get a broad picture before drafting your own application.

2) Professional ice-breaking: cold contact 

Once your research is done, it is time to do something scarier: cold contact. Send e-mails and text recruiters even when relevant job openings aren’t listed. Cold-contacting is one of the best ways to find hidden opportunities. This not only demonstrates your persistence and drive, but also distinguishes you as someone proactive who is willing to go the extra mile – a trait employers highly value.

But the magic of cold-contacting goes beyond reaching out for unlisted job listings. It can open doors to informational interviews, providing a backstage pass to the company’s culture, as well as the intricacies of your desired position. Learning directly from the source becomes invaluable when fine-tuning your game plan.

Cold-contacting is more than a job hunt strategy; it’s a career power move, a crash course in networking and job hunting skills that pays off throughout your career journey.

Think of it not just as reaching out cold but as warming up to a world of possibilities. When crafting your messages, keep them concise, engaging, and above all, professional — a tailored pitch showcasing your understanding, unmatched interest, passion, and alignment with the company’s needs.

3) Recruiters, your biggest allies in the job hunt

Working with recruitment agencies is essentially having a job-hunting professional by your side in your search. In the intricate landscape of job hunting, reputable agencies within your field give you a free ticket into the “70 per cent” arena. Don’t limit yourself to traditional agencies, though – consider those that also give you additional tools to enrich your knowledge and skills.

Recruitment agencies, especially those with a longstanding presence in the industry, know the market in and out and are able to provide you with networks you might lack.

Beyond job placements, they may also offer valuable resources, guidance, and tools to bolster your skills and navigate the ever-evolving job market. In a dynamic landscape like Singapore, where opportunities abound but can be elusive, good recruiters transform your job search into a strategic and fruitful collaboration, ensuring you don’t just find a job but a meaningful career path.

4) Start networking, it’s never too late

If you lack strong networks in your industry, fear not. As they say, better late than never.

Networking does not have to be the Herculean task that it’s often made out to be. Networks can be built just by showing up. Show up to career events, job fairs, workshops, seminars, and training programmes. These aren’t just platforms to distribute business cards – they are fertile grounds for cultivating meaningful connections.

Volunteering is also an exceptional avenue for giving back to the community and expanding your network. Beyond altruistic benefits, it is a gateway to opportunities.

Imagine being in the right place at the right time, meeting professionals who are actively hiring. Volunteering as a speaker at a conference on a topic that you’re skilled at, for example, would not only showcase your expertise but also puts you in direct contact with like-minded individuals who could shape your professional trajectory.

Even if direct job opportunities don’t surface, volunteering can lead to valuable experiences like company tours, informational interviews, or the establishment of contacts who might prove invaluable in future pursuits.

Cracking the hidden job market is not a sprint; it’s a strategic marathon. To crack the market in today’s global era, it is inevitable that the journey becomes more challenging. But while the challenge increases, so do the resources.

These resources and tips, paired with your resilience and resourcefulness, are great assets in securing your dream job. The job market might be concealed, but it is not beyond your reach.

The writer is managing director of Talentvis, a recruitment agency