Even though most applicants apply for jobs on a job board or employer career site, 35% found job postings on social media, 50% of respondents heard about jobs from friends, and 37% say they learn about jobs from professional networks. Here are some steps you can take to tap into the hidden job market:

1. Build a strong network: Networking is crucial when it comes to accessing the hidden job market. Reach out to friends, family, and acquaintances, and let them know you are actively seeking employment. Attend industry events, conferences, and seminars, and be sure to connect with other professionals in your field.
2. Connect with recruiters: Recruiters often have access to job openings that are not advertised to the public. Reach out to recruiters who specialize in your industry or field, and be sure to keep in touch with them regularly.
3. Leverage social media: Use social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook to connect with professionals in your industry. Join groups and participate in discussions, and be sure to share your expertise and insights.
4. Volunteer: Volunteering is a great way to build your skills and experience, while also expanding your network. Look for opportunities to volunteer in your field or industry, and be sure to highlight your volunteer experience on your resume and in your job applications.
5. Be proactive: Don’t wait for job openings to come to you. Research companies you are interested in working for (check out Glassdoor.com’s Best Places to Work, Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For, and the Top 100 and Best Employer lists for your city). Reach out to them directly Introduce yourself and explain your skills and experience, and ask if there are any upcoming job openings. Start by heading to LinkedIn and looking up the company that you want to work for. Click on the People tab on the company page and search for employees by keyword, such as Talent Acquisition and Recruiting, or functional areas, like Sales, Marketing, or Engineering. You can narrow your search by location. Send a connection request.
6. Many jobs today are coming from smaller companies. You can find information by looking into recipients of venture capital funding, members of your local Chamber of Commerce, professional associations, and your local economic development site.

By taking these steps, you can increase your chances of accessing the hidden job market and finding your next career move.

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