Struggling to find a job? It’s time to explore the hidden job market.

      Speak to anyone currently searching for a job, and they'll likely express that the term "hunt" is a vast understatement. Individuals are grappling for their livelihoods, and frankly, conditions don't appear to be improving much. Although there are 7.2 million job openings available right now, job scams and ghost positions are widespread. Regardless of the industry, job seekers often find themselves facing limited options and fierce competition—or so it seems.

      If you're among the many frustrated and exhausted job seekers who believe the ideal positions you're after are elusive, I hate to inform you that you might actually be correct. The perfect job for you could be hidden in the so-called hidden job market. (Yes, this really exists.) Fortunately, discovering new opportunities in the hidden job market is not too difficult, as long as you know how to access it. Continue reading to learn what the hidden job market entails and how to secure a position within it.

      The hidden job market consists of opportunities that are not openly advertised. Hanna Goefft, a former recruiter and career educator, states that up to 70 percent of jobs do not appear on platforms like LinkedIn or Indeed. Instead, employers often fill positions through internal promotions, referrals, or networking, skipping over traditional job boards entirely. With this in mind, think of the hidden job market like a secret menu at Starbucks. The jobs exist and are available; they just aren't publicly advertised. To hear about them, you need an “in,” so to speak. While this creates a challenge for job seekers, it enables employers to reduce recruitment costs and save time filtering through candidates.

      Although most available jobs are deemed “hidden,” they are not so concealed that they can't be discovered. There are numerous ways to learn about these opportunities. Here are some reliable methods:

      Networking

      In addition to marking your LinkedIn status as “open to work,” attending events, industry conferences, and similar gatherings is arguably the best way to hear about jobs that are already available (but not posted!) or will be soon. Communicate to people the types of roles you are seeking and ask them to keep you in mind if they come across any that suit your skill set. Remember, if you don’t ask, the answer will always be no.

      Make it a point to network consistently, both online and in person, with peers, colleagues, and recruiters. Follow industry professionals on LinkedIn, engage with their posts, and introduce yourself with a direct message. You might even initiate conversations with others in coffee shops about their jobs! If the people you’re speaking with are unaware of any open positions that match your skills, they may still introduce you to someone who does. The more individuals you connect with who understand your expertise, the better your chances will be.

      Connect with a recruiter

      Recruiters act like the fairy godmothers of the job market. They have stronger connections with hiring managers and often know about upcoming positions before anyone else. Additionally, they are dedicated to finding the right role for their candidates. Essentially, if anyone can assist you in making your career move, it’s a recruiter. Therefore, ensure that you maintain close contact with one (or several) while you’re job searching. Request that they keep you updated on opportunities that match your skills, even if they are not a perfect fit. Regularly inform them about any updates to your qualifications, such as new skills or certifications. These seemingly minor updates can be critical in positioning you for an opportunity they may know about in the hidden job market.

      If you do not yet have a recruiter, consider asking friends or colleagues if they can recommend one or reach out to recruiters on LinkedIn who specialize in your desired industry. If your messages resemble mine, there are likely several recruiters eager to assist you.

      Send cold emails

      If I were to guess, you have a few companies that you dream of working for, and you probably check their career pages regularly, hoping for a suitable vacancy to arise. My suggestion: Stop waiting and start reaching out. Draft a cold email (or LinkedIn message!) to someone at the company, preferably a hiring manager or department head, to introduce yourself, showcase your skills, and explain how you could add value to their team. Conclude your message by requesting that they keep you in mind for future openings or pass your email along to someone who might assist you further.

      Although sending a cold email (or DM) may seem daunting, consider the worst-case scenario: you could be ignored, or, if you're fortunate, you could learn about a hidden job opportunity. Look at it this way: you're being proactive, and hiring managers appreciate that in potential employees.

      Regardless of your feelings about social media, it's undeniable that it can effectively help individuals establish their names. Building an online “personal brand” may be enjoyable for some, but it presents a unique opportunity, particularly for job seekers, to showcase their skills, expertise, and passions. By enhancing your online visibility, you become more discoverable to recruiters and