Let's not beat about the bush; if you're looking for a job you'll have more luck getting one through people you know than through advertised positions – period! The recruitment process can be long and drawn out for employers as well as job seekers, if an employer needs a position filling it can be less timely, less risky and a whole lot more successful to employ people who are known and trusted to the organisation.
Getting a job through "back door" channels is known as the hidden job market and during a recession is the most successful place to find a job. Statistics show that during an economic downturn up to 70% of positions are filled through networking and the hidden job market – which is fairly staggering!
I get told regularly that there just aren't the jobs out there. If referring to the jobs boards, this may have a grain of truth to it, but if you're willing to put in the time and effort to tap into the hidden job market, the opportunities are there to explore.
If this sounds interesting, bear in mind that it takes effort and confidence to get out and about to raise your profile. So, first things first; you'll need to take stock of what you have to offer including your skills, experience and achievements. Next, identify the type of organisation you would want to work for, taking into account the sector, their mission and values. Next on the agenda is to write and practice a 30 second commercial so you can confidently communicate about you and your aspirations. Finally, get your social profiles up to date (professionally).
You're ready to network! But how you ask? Contacting the HR department about opportunities is not the way forward; they may well be the last person to know that there is an employment need in a department. Look to your network for introductions to department managers or employees of an organisation; use tools such as Linked in and Twitter to find useful people and gather more information about an organisation. Next, try and identify how your unique set of skills and experience will fill a gap or bring a solution to a company, make it easy for an organisation to identify you as an obvious fit! The traditional letter goes a long way, but don't be afraid to pick up the phone too!
For further support on how to promote yourself effectively to the hidden job market, get in touch penny@pennystrutton.co.uk or visit my website www.pennystrutton.co.uk
