Networking For Hidden Jobs

A good way to get an idea of how the hidden job market works is to think of a job opening as a four stage event. At the beginning, stage one, there is no opening. Both the quantity and variety of work can be adequately performed by existing personnel. Then, at the beginning of stage two, the balance shifts because of an increase in either the volume of work that needs to be done or the diversity of experience and skills required to do it. The equilibrium can also be disturbed by the transfer or departure of existing workers. Whatever the cause, employees closest to the situation determine that additional personnel are needed. In stage three, this need is identified and acknowledged by other people in the organization, including those with the authority to declare a job opening and fill it. During this stage, informal inquiries are made about potential known candidates. Finally, if and when stage four is reached, the job opening is publicly announced in the classified section or posted on-line.

Now, lets come back to the point that 50% to 80% of openings are filled throughout the hidden job market. Most of these are claimed by networkers while the openings are in their second stage. Even when openings survive to stage four, they are frequently taken quickly by people who have preexisting contacts with the decision-makers, the ultimate objective of networking is to identify and be available for openings in stages two and three. In some cases, talented networkers can even create or stimulate an opening when there is no perceived need for one.

In short, networking positions you to know the right person in the right place at the right time.