Hidden Job Search
Strategies to use
for the hidden job market include:
1.
Networking.
It is important to make connections with others as you are
looking for a job.
Don Asher suggests the following question as you begin your
hidden search and desire to build networking leads: "Who
do you know that would know something about____?"
This question will oftentimes lead to a contact name and
further information you are hoping to find.
To further build your network, ask family members, friends,
community members, professors, alumni, and the staff in
Career Services if they know of any contacts in your career
area of interest. Use tools like the GCC Alumni
eCommunity and LinkedIn to further develop your connections.
Most studies confirm that the majority of
jobs are obtained through some kind of networking. The Wall
Street Journal reported that 94% of successful job seekers
claimed that networking had made all the difference for
them. This phenomenon is easily explained. Recruiters are
more comfortable hiring someone after receiving a positive
recommendation, rather than hiring someone for which they
receive no information.
2. In-person visits. Knock on the door of
any employer or office that interests you, whether
or not they are know to have a vacancy. Remember that 85% of
employers never advertise open positions. Your initiative
could prove to be very impressive.
3. Use career databases. The Career
Services Office offers organization
research databases
including Career Search, Plunkett's, and Hoovers
Online (you can access these databases through the
library or by going on the 'Career Services' tab on myGCC).
These databases allow you to run searches on targeted
industries. The results include a list of names and numbers
of specific organizations that you can contact for employment
opportunities. Another suggestion would be to use the Yellow
Pages to identify businesses in the area you want to find
employment. Call the employers in your field of interest and
ask if they are hiring for a position for which you are
qualified.
4. Targeted mailings. Identify the top
organizations where you would like to work, and send them a
tailored cover letter and resume. Take the time to research
the company and send the letter and resume to the
appropriate contact person. Be sure to follow up with a
phone call a week after you send your resume.
5. Professional associations. For a minimal
fee, most professional associations will allow you to join
as a student member. This is a great way to learn about the
industry in which you are interested, attend conferences,
and meet employees in the field. |
