Getting Started

Getting Started

Detective Tactics for the Hidden Job Market

Despite all the hype about the multitude of job sites on the internet and scanning the local and national newspapers, the fact remains that 60-75 per cent of vacancies are not advertised through the media. The best opportunities are less likely than ever to be signposted with neon lights and the sooner you learn how to uncover these opportunities the closer you are to successfully finding not just any job, but the ‘right’ job!

Having said this however, do continue to read newspaper vacancy advertisements, check with university Career Services , student job search and job websites – all options should be used; leave no stone unturned. The key to successfully uncovering the hidden job market is to be proactive. The work you put in is what you get out. The new world of work has actually opened up more opportunities than ever before.

Here are some key tips to help you get started:

• Remain positive – perseverance is critical and accepting rejection is an important part of the process. Employers hire people who are confident, show enthusiasm and demonstrate a positive attitude.
• Be realistic – looking for work is a long-term investment. Develop key skills such as telephone technique, high-level research and networking skills. It may be necessary to accept a temporary or entry-level position to get your foot in the door.
• Get as many people as possible looking for you – this means telling everyone you know that you are looking and giving them a clear idea of what your skills are. Everyone means family, friends, neighbours, colleagues, current and/or past lecturers, current and past employers, even the owner of your corner store!
• Check the newspaper for articles about companies that are expanding, new developments, government tenders or awards. Make contact before new jobs are advertised.
• Identify two or three sectors you would ideally like to work in and do your market research. Check out their suppliers, distributors, customers and competitors. Check if there are any small businesses growing within these sectors
• Create ways of expanding your network – join a professional association, volunteer for community projects, attend meetings of your local Chamber of Commerce (this is a great way to tap into small businesses).
• Keep in touch with people who have given you any job-hunting assistance; provide them with feedback on your progress.
• Familiarise yourself with the range of resources available: trade association directories, professional journals and industry training organisations. Your local reference librarian is worth their weight in gold, and don’t forget about the yellow pages – an undervalued tremendous source of information.