Finding a New Job via Word of Mouth in the Hidden Job Market

The Hidden Job Market

Most job seekers miss seeing bigger opportunities because they apply to only posted jobs on company's websites, LinkedIn, or job listing sites. Nearly 80% of all jobs are filled without ever being publicly advertised because they are filled through word of mouth. However, candidates routinely limit themselves by chasing the same jobs as everyone else. Right away they are in direct competition with hundreds of other job hunters.

Why?

The first reason is that most job seekers don’t know how to uncover jobs that aren’t advertised. It requires networking skills that go beyond reaching out to the handful of people they already know.

Second, it requires good questioning and listening skills. Good questions uncover needs and challenges. Listening is an exercise in patience and going beyond the first layer.

Third, it’s hard work that takes an investment of time. Most simply won’t invest the time and work needed to uncover word of mouth jobs, especially if it goes longer than a few weeks.

Lastly, it means getting out of their comfort zone. Starting conversations with a lot of people is challenging, especially when you are actively looking for a new job. Proposing yourself as the solution opens the door to possible rejection.

Learning these skills takes practice and the guidance of an experienced coach who will keep you on track over the long haul. But learning these skills will open up many more opportunities and keep your job search short. By partnering with Endeavor, you can learn how to uncover these unadvertised positions.