Having trouble finding the perfect job for the next step in your career? That’s because most job opportunities are never posted online. It’s estimated that 70% of all job openings aren’t online. Recruitment Agencies in Toronto will tell you that if you are only relying on job boards to look for opportunities, you are severely limiting your options.
The good news is that our recruiters will let you in on the secret to landing jobs before they’re posted. You need to access the hidden job market. Here are the steps to find a great job opportunity before it’s posted online:
1. Build a robust professional network
Your network is your most valuable job search tool. Many companies prefer to hire through referrals and word-of-mouth before posting a role publicly. By building strong relationships with peers, mentors, and leaders in your industry, you’ll be more likely to hear about new opportunities early. A strong network can often open doors to jobs that are never advertised.
2. Make it known you are open to opportunities
Don’t be shy about letting people know you are open to new roles. This doesn’t mean announcing it everywhere. Discretion is best. But you should share your goals with trusted colleagues, mentors, and recruiters. People can’t think of you for an opportunity if they don’t know you’re looking.
3. Don’t burn bridges
Even if you’re leaving a role, always do so on good terms. The professional world, especially in Toronto, is smaller than you think. Past colleagues, managers, or even clients could recommend you for positions in the future. Treat every interaction as if it might impact your next career move.
4. Stay in touch with your professional connections
Networking isn’t just about meeting people once; it’s about maintaining relationships. Check in with former coworkers, comment on their LinkedIn posts, or congratulate them on milestones. A quick message can go a long way in keeping you top of mind when they hear about a job opening.
5. Establish a strong online presence in your field
Employers and recruiters often research candidates online before contacting them. Build a professional digital footprint by updating your LinkedIn profile, contributing to industry discussions, or publishing insights in your field. A strong online presence positions you as a knowledgeable professional and makes it easier for opportunities to find you.
6. Attend industry events online and in person
Whether it’s a conference, networking breakfast, or an online webinar, industry events are excellent places to meet people. These gatherings allow you to build connections in a natural setting and learn about potential openings that companies haven’t yet posted.
7. Stay up to date on industry news
When you follow industry news, you gain insight into which companies are expanding, receiving funding, or going through restructuring. These are all signs that new roles may open soon. Being aware of these shifts allows you to act quickly, sometimes even before a job is officially created.
8. Take the initiative and reach out to companies directly
Sometimes the best way to uncover hidden opportunities is to ask. Identify companies you’d like to work for, research their current challenges, and reach out with a tailored message that explains how your skills could help. Even if no formal role exists today, you may put yourself in a position to be considered for future openings.
9. Work with recruiters in your industry
Specialized recruiters often know about jobs before anyone else. Employers trust recruiters to quietly fill roles that may never be advertised publicly. By building relationships with recruitment specialists in your industry, you’ll get access to insider opportunities that aren’t available on job boards.
A final word on accessing the hidden job market
Finding your next career move isn’t just about scrolling through job boards. It’s about tapping into the hidden job market. Remember, most jobs are filled through networking, referrals, and direct connections. If you want to stay ahead of the competition, build your network, showcase your expertise, and partner with recruiters who know your industry.
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