Sometimes when job searching, it’s easy to forget about all the other ways you can find job positions when you’re too busy getting g sucked into job boards and search engines. Having a one-track-mind comes with the disadvantages of missing out on the hidden job market. There are various openings accessible only to those who search beyond the internet.
You won’t find every open job online for a variety of reasons. Some companies take employee referrals or advertise their positions within before sharing them with the public. It is also possible that you’re completely missing out on your dream job because a company is new, while you could easily be a part of that building process.
The most efficient way to job search is to build a strategy so we’ve put together some ways to do so.
Where Can You Locate These Unadvertised Jobs?
According to Jobvite’s 2021 Job Seeker Nation Report, almost 60% of people looking for jobs find openings on employer websites, past colleagues, or social media. On the other hand, only a quarter of the candidates find openings through job boards.
We all know it is fast and simple to utilize job search engines, however, expanding your search to other opportunities is worth your time. Doing that will create a bigger pool of available jobs, as well as the possibility of receiving a referral to help give you an “in”.
Apply Via Company Career Sites
Posting positions on job search websites costs the company money, while posting on their own website is free. Be sure to check a company’s job page directly on their website.
Networking
According to recent surveys, about 85% of jobs are found through networking. Meaning, if you are looking for work the best way to do that is communicating with your acquaintances. Tell current and past coworkers, managers, clients, teachers and just anyone in your community because that is how you will get the word around. This will allow you to connect with job opportunities or other leads.
Utilize Your Social Media
Instagram, LinkedIn, and many other social media outlets can connect you with employers, recruiters, or even just new contacts. Be sure to keep your social media professional, overall, that will be your only reputation when finding new contacts through the different sites.
Recruiters
To fill jobs, some employers use their own recruiters while others use outside companies. The people who do this are referred to as “recruiters” or “headhunters”, their main job is to locate qualified candidates for openings and find those that have a good skill set and fit the part.
Targeting Employers
If you haven’t already, create a curated list of employers you would love to work for. Targeting employers makes it easier to connect with the hiring managers through social media and find your dream job.
Temporary Jobs
Many think of temporary jobs as a way to just “extra cash” when really it could open plenty other doors for you. In reality, tons of employers recruit their long-term employees from temporary workers. This also gives you the chance to take on new roles and determine whether a job is fit for you or not.
Freelance
Freelancing is a great way to test out a job without fully committing. Becoming a freelancer also lets you build your skill set, experience, and can pave a way to other career paths.
Build An Online Presence
Avoiding social media mistakes is not your only priority. You also want to have a positive online presence that shows your skills, experience, and a professional reputation while staying consistent. All of these will show you can connect well with others in your industry, stay on top of trends and are overall a good colleague.