The Hidden Job Market: Networking Strategies That Work

Who Am I?

I’m Denise Matthews, and for over three decades, I’ve been helping professionals unlock their potential and land roles that align with their values and aspirations. As a Careers & Executive Coach, I’m passionate about guiding mid-career and senior professionals to navigate challenges and take control of their career journey.

One of the most overlooked tools in the career toolkit? ?Networking. Read on to discover how to unlock unadvertised opportunities in your field.

The Hidden Job Market

Statistics for 2024 have confirmed that job boards have only 25% of the available jobs on offer – and yet most people job searching spend 90% of their time on them!

Did you know that its estimated up to 70% of jobs are never advertised publicly? Instead, they’re filled through referrals, recommendations, or internal networks. This “hidden job market” exists because companies often prefer candidates who come recommended—it saves them time, money, and the uncertainty of hiring a stranger.

But accessing this hidden market requires more than just applying online. It’s about connecting with the right people, staying visible, and building meaningful relationships: so you have to be ready to sell yourself and reach out.

Networking for Career Success

Here are some proven strategies to access the hidden job market:

1.?LinkedIn is Your ‘Best Friend’

• Update your profile to clearly showcase your expertise and goals and make sure you state the role you are looking for.
• Connect with up to 100 people a week – focus on growing your network
• Follow companies and thought leaders in your target industry. Actively engage—comment on posts, share insights, and show up consistently.

2.?Leverage Existing Connections

• Reconnect with former colleagues or Managers; they already know your skills.
• Be ultra clear about what you’re looking for—specificity makes it easier for them to help.

3.?Join Professional Groups

• Participate in industry-specific groups on LinkedIn or local meet-ups.
• Networking doesn’t have to feel transactional—focus on building genuine connections.

4.?Ask for Informational Interviews

• Reach out to professionals in your desired field or company.
• Keep it low-pressure—ask to learn about their career path, not for a job directly.

Start Today

?? Networking Challenge: Dedicate 15 minutes a day for the next two weeks to networking:

• Send Five LinkedIn connection requests, (unless you know them or have a specific reason there is no need for a personalised note.)
• Engage with three posts or articles in your industry.
• Schedule one virtual coffee or call with someone in your network.

?? Client Success Story:

A recent client, “Sarah,” was struggling to find roles in her field. By strategically reconnecting with her LinkedIn network and engaging with alumni from her university, she discovered an unadvertised opening at her dream company. One conversation led to a referral, and within weeks, ?taking advice from the people who were supporting her she landed the role.

“Know where you want to go and make sure the right people know about it." -- Meredith Mahoney

?? Resources to Help You Start

If you’re thinking about a career change or planning your next move here are some great resources to get you started:

??? Strategies to building a thriving leadership culture - HERE

??? Free Training - HERE

?? Blogs with Career Advice - HERE

??? Podcasts - HERE

Ready to Tap Into the Hidden Job Market?

Let’s work together to create a tailored networking strategy that works for you. My 1:1 Career Coaching Programme provides personalised guidance to help you build connections, craft a standout profile, and find the opportunities you deserve.

How to work with me:

1-1 Career Change Coaching Programme - HERE

Career Mastery - HERE

I hope you have found it insightful to think about the hidden job market with me today. Networking might feel intimidating, but it’s one of the most powerful tools you can use to advance your career. Take it one step at a time—and remember, you’re not alone in this journey.

Warm wishes

Denise

Careers & Executive Coach