The Hidden Job Market — How to Land Roles That Aren’t Posted

When most people look for a job, they head straight to job boards. They apply to dozens of postings, wait weeks for a reply — and often hear nothing. Here’s the secret: 70–80% of jobs are never posted publicly. They’re filled through referrals, internal promotions, or networks.

Breaking into this “hidden job market” is one of the most effective ways to find your next opportunity — and it’s often faster and less competitive.

🔑 Why Most Jobs Aren’t Posted

Many companies skip posting a job because it’s faster and cheaper to hire someone they already know or trust through a referral. This means that while hundreds of candidates fight over one public posting, hidden opportunities go to those who are connected.

👥 How to Tap Into the Hidden Job Market

1. Build & Activate Your Network

Start by letting people know you’re exploring new opportunities. Reach out to past colleagues, mentors, and friends. Post on LinkedIn about what you’re looking for — clearly and positively.

💡 Tip: Be specific. “Looking for a project manager role in fintech” gets more results than “Open to work.”

2. Ask for Informational Interviews

Don’t wait for a job posting to appear. Reach out to people at companies you admire and ask:

“I’m exploring new opportunities — could I get 15 minutes to hear about what you do and what it’s like working there?”

Most people are happy to share their experience — and that conversation can lead to an introduction when a role opens up.

3. Target Smaller Companies & Startups

Smaller businesses and startups often move faster, skip formal postings, and hire based on personal connection. A single conversation with a hiring manager can be enough to get you in the door.

4. Join Communities Where People Are Hiring

   
   

Industry Slack/Discord groups, Meetup events, and professional associations often share jobs internally before they’re public. Being present in those spaces means you’ll hear about them first.

5. Follow Companies & Hiring Managers

   
   

Stay visible. Engage with posts from recruiters, hiring managers, and company pages on LinkedIn. This puts you on their radar before you even apply.

🚀 Your Action Plan

• Connect with 5 new people this week and ask thoughtful questions.

• Set up 1–2 informational interviews to learn about target companies.

• Post on LinkedIn about your job search (specific and positive).

• Join 1 professional group or virtual event this month.

Remember: it only takes one person to change your career.

✨ Final Thought

Your next opportunity might not be on a job board — it might be one conversation away. The more you show up, ask questions, and build real relationships, the faster you’ll find the right role.

👉 Need guidance creating a networking plan that actually works? At Eric Sunkel Career Coaching, I’ll help you map your connections and turn them into real opportunities. Book a free 15-min session (after 6:00 PM EST) and let’s get started.