Although today’s job seeker relies on the same set of tools used by job seekers through the end of the last century to find employment, (e.g. career fairs, networking, news paper ads, etc.) the job search strategy of the 21st century is increasingly focused on the use of one new innovative tool: online job search databases. This new emergent job search paradigm is largely predicated on the premise that online job post aggregators—like indeed.com or any of a number of online job search engines that have sprung up in recent years—are, in fact, an effective means of finding a job and surveying the employment landscape. This premise however, contains a fatal flaw: not every, or even most companies post job vacancies on those job sites. That is to say, while job search engines do an excellent job of processing information about listed positions, they are unable to disclose details about most job openings, which, according to one Wall Street Journal contributor, are unlisted.
Denis Nishi, of The Wall Street Journal, recently reported that, staggeringly, “more than 80% of job openings are actually unlisted.” In light of this, you might be wondering, how can I find a job if it’s unlisted?
- Look for signs. As I have mentioned before, research is critically important in finding a job. Job seekers should research their profession and keep up-to-date with industry news and emerging trends. Nishi suggests that job seekers, “Read trade journals, follow analyst commentary and monitor the stock market for indicators showing which companies are growing.” Next, says Nishi, it is important that you systematize the data you collect: “Compile a list of companies that you’d like to work for and research relevant positions within those organizations.”
- It’s people, not paper. Nishi points out that most professional connections and job placement occurs through networking. Contact everyone, recommends Nishi, and find that one contact who can provide you with a good lead.
- Make it easy to find you. Leave a positive digital footprint online, says Nishi. Don’t just create a LinkedIn profile, “promote your availability by posting your resume on” a host of “networking sites.” Through those social networking platforms, connect with individuals in the industry, and begin to establish yourself as an asset in your industry. Be aware, however, that if discovered, your current employer may not look kindly on your active use of social media to pursue another job.
Comments are closed.