How do you usually look for a job?
If you are like most people, you probably wait for job ads to appear on sites like Seek or LinkedIn, hit “apply,” and then hope for an interview.
This is a very reactive approach.
It is waiting for jobs to appear in front of us, and if a job is not advertised, we often do not even consider it.
But what if I told you there is a different way?
A way to make your job search proactive, where you get to decide where you want to work, who you want to work with, and which of your skills you actually want to use?
It All Starts with You: Knowing Your Superpowers
Before you can start taking charge, you need to get clear on your own strengths and what you do better than other professionals. This self-discovery is vital!
To really figure out what you are great at and what you genuinely prefer, I highly recommend having a look at the book “What Color Is Your Parachute?” by Richard Bolles. This is a classic career book and you can find it in most libraries. The “Flower Exercise” outlined in the book is a game-changer for gaining clarity about your skills and expertise which are both marketable and special for the marketplace. Once you have done that groundwork, you are ready for the next stage: growing your network to uncover those unadvertised jobs.
Unlocking the “Hidden Job Market”
You might have heard about the Australian hidden job market. It is not some secret; it just means these jobs are not advertised through the usual channels like Seek or LinkedIn Jobs. Instead, companies are often asking people they know to recommend professionals who would be a great fit for a role.
So, how do you tap into this hidden jobs?
It is all about increasing your network and making sure people know who you are and what problems you can solve.
Here are some of my top tips:
- Attend industry events: This is a great way to meet people face to face. Think workshops, or networking nights put on by different companies or associations.
- Explore Meetup.com: Head over to meetup.com/en-AU/ and search for groups related to your professional interests, and even personal interests. Start attending those events and just chat with people. You never know who you will meet!
- Leverage your existing network: Think about the people you already know here in Adelaide. Who could they introduce you to? Maybe someone who works in an industry you are keen on, or even at a company you have been considering. Do not be shy about asking for an introduction!
The Power of the “Information Interview”
Once you start meeting people who work in areas that interest you, you could send some questions or ask for an “information interview.” These are not job interviews; they are your chance to gather intel and learn from others. Here are some questions you can ask:
- How did you get into this industry?
- What do you genuinely enjoy about your day to day work?
- Is there anything you do not particularly like about your work or the industry in general?
- Which other industries would typically hire someone with your job title (e.g., “X” if you are asking about your own profession)?
These “information interviews” will give you so much extra insight into industries and professions you are interested in. Plus, they show you are proactive, which can make a strong first impression! Your new contacts might even recommend you for roles within their own companies later on.
In summary, the hidden job market opens up once you have connections who not only know you but also understand what you can do. So, remember to first get clear on your skills and preferences. Then, share those with your current and growing network of professionals.
Ready to shift your job search from reactive to proactive?
What is your first step going to be?
