The "hidden market" consists of positions which recruiters and companies do not advertise. This may be as much as 75-95% of the total job market. These positions exist because organizations prefer to search for candidates in their local databases, on LinkedIn, Indeed, and Monster, and through referrals before going to the expense of advertising. Candidates can access the hidden market through the following methods:
- Networking
- Researching and connecting with companies through social media
- Reaching out to professionals who work in your industry
- Researching companies and putting your resume on file
- Connecting and putting your resume on file with many recruiters
- Posting profiles on job boards
The fastest, most effective way to make an impact in the hidden market is for candidates to optimize their resume for visibility, and the presentation of value.
- Visibility is achieved through the skillful use of keywords and phrases.
- Value is presented by quantifying and prioritizing skill levels and providing explanations about the context of the use of skills. You may want to question the popular wisdom which advises a 1-2 page resume. Rather, think about the prioritization of information and presentation. Be concise. Present the 'Real Person' and the 'Full Value' in whatever space is required. A resume written in this form with proper distribution can be 10 times as productive as responding to postings.
Please contact me if you would like to learn more or have a quick resume review.