How to unlock the hidden job market

Jobseekers, we’re going to let you into a secret: The job market is not what it seems.

Sure, plenty of fundraising jobs get posted on job boards and charity websites, but there’s a ‘hidden’ job market that’s rife with opportunities.

In this post, we’re going to explore what the hidden market is and tell you how you can tap into it.

What is the hidden job market?

As elusive as it sounds, the hidden job market isn’t an exclusive club you can only access if you have the right credentials. It’s a term used to describe vacancies that employers don't advertise publicly.

Believe it or not, According to My Job Search, 70% of jobs don’t make it online.

Instead, these roles are filled by internal candidates, via referrals, or recruitment agencies.   

Why ‘hide’ jobs?

‘Hiding’ jobs is counterintuitive, isn’t it? Surely charities want their jobs to be seen by as many people as possible?

Not necessarily.

Charities choose not to advertise their roles for various reasons. Some aren’t equipped to process the volume of applications generated by their ads; some don’t have the budget for glossy recruitment campaigns. And others may be looking to backfill positions of employees who are yet to leave.

Whatever the reason, there are loads of great fundraising jobs out there that you won’t find by trawling the job boards. If you don’t tap into the hidden market, you could miss out on your ideal role.

How can you crack the hidden job market?

Be proactive. Rather than sitting back and waiting for jobs to fall into your lap, get out there and find them.
Here are three ways to do it.

1. Send speculative applications

Got a hit list of charities you want to work for, but can’t see any job openings? Fire off some speculative applications.

A speculative application is essentially an unsolicited job application. It’s a way to introduce yourself to potential employees, sell your skills, and convince them they need you before a job comes up.

Considering many charities recruit on an ongoing basis, this is a savvy way to get a head start on the competition.

If you nail it, you might get snapped up. If not, you’ll be on their radar when a position matching your skillset crops up.

Want to give it a go? Find out how in this article.

2. Network 

According to writersblocklive, 85% of people get a job through some form of networking. If you want to be one of them it’s time to get schmoozing.

Here’s how.

LinkedIn

Reach out to your LinkedIn contacts. Let them know you’re on the market for a job. Explain what you’re looking for and ask them to introduce you to anyone who may be able to help.

Industry events

Charity sector conferences, seminars, and trade shows can be invaluable resources for finding new opportunities. You never know who you might run into or what connections they may have.

If you go down this route though, remember that networking is a two-way street. Before shooting off any emails, think about what you can offer others in return.

3. Partner with a recruitment agency

Some charities work exclusively with recruitment agencies, like Bamboo, to find high-quality candidates. If you partner with one, it’ll open the door to lots of opportunities.

Having a top-notch recruiter in your corner is like having your own personal advocate. Someone who’ll help you find the right role, vouch for you, help you prepare for interviews, and negotiate the salary.

The best bit? It won’t cost you a penny. What have you got to lose?

At Bamboo, we specialise in placing talented fundraisers in rewarding, world-changing roles. Give us a call on 0203 750 3111 to talk tactics.

 

 

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