Where To Find Your Next Role: Exploring The Hidden Job Market
When it comes to searching for a job, the first method that comes to mind is often traditional online job boards and websites. While these are great places to start, there’s also the lesser known – but just as valuable – ‘hidden’ job market.
In this article, we’ll explore both options – from the best job websites in Australia, to a deep dive into the hidden job market, including how you can use it to find your next job opportunity.
The best job websites in Australia
There’s a number of job sites and boards to choose from when searching for your next role in Australia. Here’s the A-Z of the most popular online job sites:
- Adzuna is an online job search engine that compiles job listings from various sources. Users can search for jobs based on location, industry, and job type. Adzuna provides information about salaries and trends in the job market to help job seekers make informed decisions.
- CareerOne is an Australian job search platform that connects job seekers with employers. Users can search for jobs across various industries, upload their resumes, and receive personalised job alerts. The platform also provides career advice and resources to assist individuals in their job search and professional development.
- Employable Me is a new and free recruitment tool to connect with thousands of jobseekers across Australia. It is powered by APM – a global human-services provider – and brings job seekers and potential employers together. This job site is especially suitable for people living with injury, illness or disability.
- Indeed is a versatile platform ideal for individuals searching for jobs across a wide array of industries and professions. It caters to both entry-level positions and experienced roles, making it suitable for job seekers at various stages of their careers. Whether you’re seeking full-time, part-time, or temporary employment, Indeed provides a comprehensive range of job listings.
- JobSearch is an easy to use search engine powered by the Australian Government. You can find lots of different jobs in different fields making it simple to discover and apply for ones that match your skills. With its user-friendly features and a wide range of job listings.
- Jora is an online job search website that makes finding a job and hiring employees easier for everyone. It is well-suited for individuals seeking a diverse range of jobs across various industries – from entry-level positions, skilled roles, part-time work, or full-time employment, you’ll find a broad spectrum of job listings. Jora caters to people with different skill sets and experiences, making it suitable for both new job seekers and seasoned professionals.
- LinkedIn is a professional networking platform that goes beyond job searching. It’s especially useful for individuals looking to build and leverage their professional connections. While it serves as a job board, it’s also a space for showcasing skills, networking, and engaging in industry discussions. LinkedIn is well-suited for professionals of all levels who want to connect with potential employers, colleagues, and industry influencers, making it a valuable resource for career development and job opportunities.
- Seek is the most popular job search site in Australia, an excellent platform for job seekers offering a wide range of employment opportunities across diverse industries. It is especially useful for individuals seeking both entry-level positions and advanced roles. With a user-friendly interface and advanced search options, Seek makes it easy for users to tailor their job searches based on specific criteria such as location, industry, and job type.
- Toozly is Australia’s premium job search website for people with disabilities and has assisted thousands of job seekers and numerous employers including Commonwealth Bank, ANZ Bank, PwC, NSW and Victorian State Governments, Stockland Group, NDIS, Life Without Barriers, City of Sydney and Toyota Australia and many more to create more diverse and inclusive workplaces.
- Workforce Australia allows job seekers to search and apply for jobs or find more information on the pathway to employment in Australia. It’s a great addition to your job search toolkit.
Exploring the Hidden Job Market
What is the hidden job market?
The hidden job market refers to job openings and opportunities that are not advertised or posted publicly on job boards like those mentioned above. These jobs may be filled through internal referrals, networking, or other informal methods.
Many employers use the hidden job market to avoid the potentially lengthy and expensive process of open online applications.
Why is the hidden job market valuable?
The hidden job market can provide opportunities that may not be available through traditional job search methods. By tapping into the hidden job market, you may be able to find job openings that are a better fit for your skills and experience, or that offer better compensation and benefits.
5 ways to find roles in the hidden job market
1. Networking
Networking is one of the most effective ways to tap into the hidden job market. Connect with people in your industry or field, attend industry events, and join professional organisations both online and offline. Let people know that you are looking for a job and ask if they know of any openings.
2. Cold-calling and emailing
Another way to tap into the hidden job market is to cold-call or email companies that you are interested in working for. Even if they don’t have any current job openings, they may be able to keep your resume on file to contact you about future opportunities.
3. Informational interviews
Informational interviews are a great way to learn more about a company or industry and make connections with people who may be able to help you in your job search. Reach out to people in your network or on LinkedIn and ask if they would be willing to do an informational interview with you.
4. Contracting
Contracting, also known as ‘temping’, can be a great way to get your foot in the door at a company and potentially lead to longer-term role. Many companies hire temp workers to fill short-term or project-based needs, and these roles can often turn into permanent positions.
5. Social media
Social media can be a powerful tool for tapping into the hidden job market. Follow companies that you are interested in working for, engage with their content, and connect with people who work there. You may be able to find out about job openings or make connections with people who can help you in your job search.
Many job seekers overlook the value of the hidden job market, but by tapping into opportunities using our tips above, you can increase your chances of finding roles that are not available through traditional job search methods.
If you’re seeking professional support in your employment journey, Navitas Skilled Futures has a range of Government-funded courses & programs available.
From the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) designed strengthen your English and digital literacy skills, to the Skills for Work (SEE) program that can boost your confidence heading into the workplace, there are plenty of options to get your employment journey off to a positive start.