The Hidden Job Market And Why It Exists
Not all job opportunities make it to LinkedIn or Indeed. In fact, studies suggest 40–60% of job roles are filled without ever being advertised. This is known as the hidden job market.
Employers often skip public postings to:
- Avoid a flood of unqualified applications.
- Hire quickly through trusted referrals.
- Protect confidentiality when replacing a role.
For students, fresh graduates, or career changers, learning to tap into this market can be a game-changer.
Step 1: Start With Your Existing Network
Many people underestimate the value of the network they already have.
Who to Contact:
- Former classmates
- Professors or lecturers
- Internship supervisors
- Family friends working in your target field
How to Approach Them:
- Be specific about the role or industry you’re targeting.
- Ask for insights, not just a job.
- Let them know you’re open to introductions.
Example:
Instead of “Do you know of any jobs?”, try:
“I’m looking for opportunities in digital marketing, especially in content creation. Do you know anyone I could speak with to learn more about current hiring trends?”
Step 2: Build Your Visibility in Relevant Circles
Opportunities often come to those who are seen and remembered.
- Attend Industry Events – Networking meetups, seminars, trade shows.
- Join Professional Associations – Like the Chartered Institute of Marketing or BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT.
- Participate in Student or Alumni Groups – UWS London students have access to alumni networks that often share internal job openings.
Tip: Even commenting thoughtfully on LinkedIn posts from industry leaders can make you more visible.
Step 3: Connect Directly With Hiring Managers
Instead of applying through a general HR portal, find decision-makers.
How:
- Search LinkedIn for “Head of Marketing,” “Project Manager,” or similar titles at your target companies.
- Follow them, engage with their content, then reach out.
- Send a concise, personalised message (avoid long pitches).
Sample Script:
“Hello [Name], I admire the work your team is doing at [Company]. I’m currently expanding my skills in [specific area] and would love to learn more about your department’s upcoming projects. Would you be open to a quick conversation?”
Step 4: Use Informational Interviews
An informational interview is not about asking for a job — it’s about learning.
But often, these conversations lead to unadvertised opportunities.
Steps:
- Identify someone in your desired field.
- Request a 15–20 minute call or coffee chats
- Prepare smart questions about their role, challenges, and industry changes.
- Follow up with thanks — and stay in touch.
People remember those who show genuine curiosity, not desperation.
Step 5: Volunteer or Freelance Your Way In
Short-term contributions can open full-time doors.
- Offer your skills on a small project.
- Volunteer for industry-related causes.
- Take on a contract role in your target company.
Once inside, you’ll hear about opportunities before they go public.
UWS London Example:
A student taking MSc Information Technology with Cloud Computing could volunteer to help a small business migrate systems — building experience and relationships that may lead to a formal offer.
Step 6: Follow Companies, Not Just Job Boards
Pick 10–15 companies you’d like to work for and:
- Subscribe to their newsletters.
- Follow them on LinkedIn and Instagrams
- Check their “Careers” page weekly — some roles are listed briefly before being filled internally.
Often, companies prefer to hire people who have already shown interest in their brand.
Step 7: Leverage University Career Services
Many universities have exclusive partnerships with employers who prefer to recruit directly from their talent pool.
At UWS London, for example, students gain access to:
- Internal job boards
- Employer networking events
- Industry guest lectures
- Internship pipelines with partner companies
These opportunities often never appear in public listings.
Step 8: Maintain a Strong Personal Brand
If your CV, LinkedIn, and portfolio clearly showcase your skills, recruiters may approach you — bypassing public listings entirely.
Make sure your profile:
- Uses industry-specific keywords.
- Includes measurable achievements.
- Displays endorsements or recommendations.
When people can see your value instantly, they’re more likely to consider you for unadvertised roles.
Step 9: Be Proactive, Not Passive
Don’t wait for opportunities to appear create them.
- Identify a company’s pain points and propose solutions in your approach.
- Share relevant industry insights with connections.
- Consistently follow up with your network.
Persistence and value-adding behaviour are key in the hidden job market.
The Erudmite Perspective
At Erudmite, we teach students that job searching isn’t just about applying — it’s about positioning.
We help our students:
- Identify target industries.
- Refine personal branding for maximum visibility.
- Build meaningful professional relationships.
- Access UK-specific networks and alumni connections.
Whether you want to study in the UK from UAE, connect with career counselling in Dubai, or secure a post-study job before your visa ends, we’ll help you break into opportunities you won’t find online.
FAQs
1. Why do so many jobs go unadvertised?
Because employers often prefer trusted referrals and internal recommendations to reduce hiring time and cost.
2. Is networking just for extroverts?
No. Networking can be structured and intentional even introverts can succeed by focusing on 1:1 connections.
3. How can students without experience find hidden jobs?
Through internships, volunteering, alumni contacts, and university career services.
4. Should I ask directly for a job in a first conversation?
No. Build rapport first, demonstrate value, and let opportunities arise naturally.
5. Can LinkedIn really lead to hidden jobs?
Yes. Many recruiters use it to source candidates without ever posting public listings.
