The Invisible Job Market

Years ago, before the internet became mainstream – networking was an expected ritual for the job seeker. Candidates pounded the pavement and reached out to those they knew to develop leads for job opportunities. It was the norm to get out and meet people and talk about what you were looking for, what you did well, and how your strengths could serve an organization well.

Today, too many people are hiding behind technology and waiting for the myriad of jobs they apply for online to turn into an offer. In reality, 80% (yes, it’s true!) of jobs remain in the invisible job market. They are never posted publicly because organizations look to their extended networks to hire people whom they know and trust.

So if you are spending the bulk of your time on the web you need to get out more! Start meeting with people in-the-know in your circle of trust and get the inside scoop about what organizations are looking for. Ask your warm network for referrals to build new relationships that may be closer to the industry in which you are seeking employment. In a competitive job market this more important than ever.

Dress the part and get out and dust off your verbal communication skills by meeting with people. Visibility and knowing what your personal brand is are your two best strategies in the job search. I’ve been on the recruiting side of the equation and I would much rather hire someone who came highly recommended by someone in my network than someone who blindly submitted application materials.

I’ll be talking about Networking Boot Camp in future posts since I know this concept paralyzes some people with fear. Trust me – it’s not that difficult and it works.