Here's a frustrating truth: by the time a job is posted publicly, it may already be half-filled. The best opportunities often never make it to job boards at all.
This is the "hidden job market"—and 80% of jobs are filled through networking, often before a formal posting exists.
Why Jobs Stay Hidden
Companies have strong incentives to fill roles without public postings:
- Avoiding application floods: A single job posting can generate 250+ applications. Hiring managers prefer referrals.
- Speed: Internal candidates and referrals can be vetted faster than strangers.
- Quality: Referred candidates have a built-in endorsement.
- Cost: Posting on job boards costs money. Internal sourcing is free.
Signals That Hidden Jobs Are Opening
Watch for these indicators that a company is about to hire:
1. Employee Departures
When someone announces they're leaving on LinkedIn, their replacement role often isn't posted yet. That's your window.
2. Funding Announcements
Companies that just raised money are about to go on hiring sprees. Track startup funding news on TechCrunch, Crunchbase, or your industry publications.
3. Expansion News
New office openings, market expansions, or product launches all signal upcoming hires.
4. Career Page Changes
Some companies quietly update their careers page before posting on external boards. Check target company pages directly.
How to Tap the Hidden Market
Build Relationships Before You Need Them
The worst time to network is when you're desperate for a job. Start building recruiter relationships now—even if you're not actively looking. When opportunities arise, you'll be top of mind.
Conduct Informational Interviews
Request 20-30 minute conversations with people in roles you want. Ask about their work, how they got there, and what advice they'd give. These conversations often lead to: "Actually, we have an opening..."
Engage on LinkedIn Strategically
Comment thoughtfully on posts from hiring managers and recruiters in your target companies. Get on their radar before you need to be.
Leverage Alumni Networks
People hire people like them. Your school's alumni network is an underleveraged goldmine of connections.
Ask for Referrals Properly
Don't apply first, then ask for a referral. Reach out to your connection first, explain your interest, and ask if they'd be willing to refer you. This way, your application gets flagged from the start.
The Math in Your Favor
When you apply through a job board, you're competing with 100+ people. When you get referred or reach out directly, you might be one of 5 candidates considered.
The hidden job market isn't some exclusive club. It's just the result of human behavior—people prefer to work with people they know or who come recommended. Make yourself known, and doors open.