The Hidden Job Market: How 70% of Jobs Never Get Posted

Imagine sending out dozens of applications, only to hear nothing back. You might feel like you're shouting into the void, right? You're not alone. Many job seekers experience this frustrating cycle. But here's the kicker—70% of jobs are never publicly posted, according to a 2024 LinkedIn survey. How can you apply for a job that you don’t even know exists?

The Problem Everyone Ignores

If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the sheer number of unresponsive applications, you're in familiar territory. The hidden job market is vast, and most job seekers don't even know where to start. "I keep hearing about the 'hidden job market,' but I have no idea how to tap into it. It's so frustrating!" some might say, and they're not wrong. The lack of transparency in job openings is a real issue, leaving many to question their qualifications and the hiring process itself.

But did you know that about 70% of jobs are never posted publicly? This staggering statistic from LinkedIn opens our eyes to the vast number of opportunities that remain hidden, only accessible if you know where to look. You're not just missing out on jobs; you're missing out on the majority of them.

Feeling isolated? That's exactly what the hidden job market does—it makes you feel like you're in the dark with no flashlight. But don't worry, we’re about to find the switch.

Why Sending Out Applications Doesn't Work

Let's challenge the conventional wisdom here. Many of us were taught that the way to land a job is through online applications. But if 70% of jobs aren't posted, then flooding inboxes with your resume might not be the most effective strategy. For instance, one job seeker shared, "Every time I think I'm close to a job, I get ghosted. How do I even find the unlisted positions?" It’s a common theme—relying solely on online applications often feels like you're playing the lottery.

The reality is, the job market is more about who you know, not just what you know. Networking, though daunting, is crucial, and the traditional apply-and-wait method won't suffice in this unposted landscape. So, what can you do instead?

The 3 Things That Actually Work

Let's dive into actionable strategies that have helped real job seekers escape the cycle of unresponsive applications and discover hidden opportunities.

Step 1: Leverage Your Network

Reach out to people you know. Sounds simple, right? Yet, many overlook this powerful step. Start by listing everyone you know in your industry. Don’t worry if it’s a short list—it's about quality, not quantity.

Here's a script to get you started:

Hi Sarah,

I hope you're doing well! I'm currently exploring new opportunities in your field and am reaching out to professionals I admire. If you know of any teams hiring or could spare some time for a quick chat, I'd be incredibly grateful. Let me know if there’s a time that works for you!

Remember, it's not about directly asking for a job. It's about seeking guidance and expanding your network. One job seeker I spoke to mentioned how this simple reach-out led to a coffee meeting, which turned into a referral.

Step 2: Join Industry Groups

Get involved. Many industries have professional groups or associations. Whether online or offline, they provide a wealth of unposted job leads and networking opportunities. Join these groups and actively participate.

Consider this: Dan, a marketing professional, joined a LinkedIn group focused on digital marketing trends. By engaging in discussions, he connected with a hiring manager who later offered him a position not listed anywhere.

Step 3: Connect with Recruiters

Make recruiters your allies. They often have access to jobs that aren't listed publicly. Find recruiters in your field and introduce yourself.

Try this approach:

Hi the recruiter,

I came across your profile while looking for experienced recruiters in your field. I'm currently exploring new roles in this area and would love to connect. I'd be grateful for any opportunities you might be aware of that fit my background.

Building a relationship with a recruiter can give you access to opportunities you wouldn't otherwise hear about.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls when navigating the hidden job market:

• Ignoring Follow-ups: Networking doesn’t end with a single conversation. Follow up and keep the connection warm.

• Being Too Generic: Tailor your outreach messages. A personalized note shows you’ve done your homework.

• Focusing Solely on Online Applications: Remember, the majority of jobs aren't posted online. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.

Your Next Step

Feeling ready to uncover hidden opportunities? Start by reaching out to just one person in your network today. Remember, it's not about asking for a job outright but about building relationships and gaining insights.

Ready to take action? Our job tracker can help you organize your search and connect with opportunities you haven’t considered yet. It’s your first step toward navigating the hidden job market successfully.

---

Part of our broken job search series for job seekers.