Hidden Job Market in Canada
Nick (Naeem) ?? Noorani
Founder CEO @ Immigrant Networks | Newcomer Success #immigrantnetworks 21,000 followers | Lived experience champion | Impossible Dreamer - wants to help 1 Million immigrants get jobs! LinkedIn for newcomers
Picture this: You're a newcomer to Canada, ready to dive into the exciting world of job hunting. You've polished your resume, honed your interview skills, optimized your LinkedIn, and even mastered your elevator pitch.
But wait!
There's a secret realm of employment opportunities lurking beneath the surface – the hidden job market.
As a newcomer to Canada, the hidden job market holds tremendous significance. While advertised positions are visible to everyone via various online platforms, these opportunities are not accessible through traditional channels.
So why should we bother exploring this hidden job market?
Simple!
You may be the FIRST one getting a shot at the job!
As hidden job market positions are not openly advertised, there tends to be reduced competition compared to publicly available jobs. By tapping into this less-explored realm of employment, one can easily uncover unadvertised job opportunities, leverage personal connections, and showcase their skills and qualifications directly to employers.
In a situation where established job seekers often dominate the market, this hidden job market can actually be a game changer for you.
Interesting, no?
Well! let's delve into the importance of the hidden job market and uncover ways to access it.
What is a hidden job market?
The hidden job market includes job opportunities that are not advertised like regular jobs. You won't find them on job websites or in newspapers. Instead, these jobs are discovered through networking, personal connections, directly contacting employers or networking platforms. They are not known to most job seekers and rely on recommendations from people you know. This hidden job market covers different kinds of jobs, from entry-level positions to high-level roles. To find these hidden jobs, it's important to build relationships and actively reach out to people. Understanding the hidden job market is essential because it opens up more possibilities beyond the usual job listings, increasing your chances of finding unique career opportunities.
Importance of the hidden job market for newcomers
Understanding the importance of the hidden job market and effectively navigating its intricacies can give one a competitive edge. How?
No Canadian Experience
One of the most significant challenges newcomers face is the "Canadian experience". However, an exciting aspect of the hidden job market is that it offers newcomers an opportunity to bypass this barrier. By tapping into the hidden job market, one can showcase their skills, talents, and potential to employers without the need for specific Canadian local work experience.
Navigating Unadvertised Opportunities
Statistics indicate that a majority of the job openings in Canada are never publicly advertised. These positions are often filled through internal referrals or by actively seeking out qualified candidates within professional networks. By accessing the hidden job market, you can tap into this vast pool of unadvertised opportunities.
Building Meaningful Connections
The hidden job market thrives on networking, and for newcomers, building connections is vital. Engaging with professionals in your desired industry can provide valuable insights, mentorship, and potential job leads. By immersing yourself in the hidden job market, you can establish meaningful connections with individuals who can open doors to employment opportunities and offer guidance.
Well, it is always great to know the advantages. But how do we actually access this hidden job market?
Well! We have done the homework for you...
How to access the Hidden Job Market
Now that we understand the importance of the hidden job market for newcomers, let's uncover some strategies to gain entry to this elusive realm.
领英推荐
(Pssst, we will share one of the biggest way to access the hidden job market at the end...keep on scrolling!)
Network, Network, Network
Networking is the key that unlocks the door to the hidden job market. Attend industry events, job fairs, and professional association gatherings to connect with like-minded individuals and potential employers. Join online communities and leverage social media platforms like LinkedIn to establish a digital presence and engage in industry-specific discussions.
Informational Interviews
Informational interviews are golden opportunities for one to gain insights into their desired field, learn from experienced professionals, and potentially uncover hidden job opportunities. Reach out to professionals in your industry, express your genuine interest in their work, and request a short meeting to discuss their experiences. Not only will you gain valuable knowledge, but you'll also establish connections that could lead to future employment prospects.
Leverage Settlement Services and Newcomer Programs
In Canada, there are various settlement agencies available to assist immigrants throughout their journey. These agencies offer a wide range of support services aimed at helping newcomers settle into their new lives. Among the valuable resources they provide are assistance with job searches, mentorship programs, and connections to employers. Connect with these agencies to kickstart your career in your field.
Direct contact with companies
Research companies that align with your career goals and values. Visit their websites and look for contact information, including email addresses or phone numbers of hiring managers or department heads. Reach out to them directly, expressing your interest and inquiring about any potential opportunities.
Professional associations and job boards
Join industry-specific professional associations or groups. These organizations often have job boards or internal job listings accessible only to their members. Participating in these communities can provide you with access to hidden job opportunities.
Freelancing and contract work
Consider offering your services on freelancing platforms or networking with individuals and businesses that frequently hire freelancers. Temporary or contract positions can serve as gateways to hidden job openings, as companies often convert high-performing contractors into permanent employees.
Cold calling and speculative applications
Identify companies you're interested in and reach out to them directly, even if they haven't advertised any openings. Send a well-crafted cover letter and resume, highlighting your skills and expressing your interest in working for them. This proactive approach can sometimes uncover hidden job opportunities.
Lastly, Exclusive Immigrant Networks WhatsApp Community group!
What is AMA?
AMA stands for Ask Me Anything
Yes, we at Immigrant Networks have an exclusive WhatsApp group where everyone posts job opportunities that have not been made public.This feature is only available through our WhatsApp community group. Please note that this group is only valid for in Canada cell phone users.
If you wish to become a part of this group, search your inbox for an email we have sent with a link to the WhatsApp!
As a community of immigrants created to assist immigrants, we focus on providing a safe space for professionals to connect with one another.
Immigrant Networks is a launchpad to career success in Canada.
By registering with us at www.immigrantnetworks.com , we endeavour to provide you an opportunity to connect with professionals working in your desired field.
Give it a try!
It is FREE!
Networking to get working! ??
Human Development Consultant | Learning Experience Designer ! Home Schooling Parent
1 年I am outside Canada and also no intention to be there yet I like reading your post.
Helping forward-thinking nonprofits focus on what matters most to elevate their social impact and build sustainability strategically | Former Executive | Consultant | Facilitator | Mom of twins | Scuba Diver |
1 年What a valuable resources for Newcomers. This is certainly where I saw women newcomers have success in my work as a mentor with the Women’s Newcomer Services.