A lot of LinkedIn users are unaware of LinkedIn’s massive hidden job market. Do you know that your LinkedIn Profile can help you?
LinkedIn users consider the regular job feature only. They also see a large number of applicants chasing jobs published on LinkedIn Job Portal. However, due to competition, mathematically, chances of an interview call are limited. 
LinkedIn’s hidden job market consists of jobs that are not posted on its job board. In the simplest way, any jobs that are not published on job portals, instead shared only on LinkedIn posts or any other social media platform are considered as the hidden job market. A lot of recruiters, small business owners and HR professionals publish jobs on their profiles. This hidden job market can only be accessed through building a strong network and getting LinkedIn Profile optimized.
LinkedIn ran a poll to understand the size of the hidden job market. 36% respondents suggested between 51% to 75% and 29% were of the view that about 76% and above jobs are placed in the hidden job market.
For recruiters, it is easier to identify candidates following the hidden job market. And for candidates, there is lesser competition. However the success really depends on how effective the network is from both recruiters and potential candidates.
Given the magnitude of its user base, LinkedIn certainly stands out as the biggest hidden job market. This makes it essential for job seekers to learn ways they can effectively use LinkedIn to reach out to the hidden job market.
3 Tips to Help You Access the Hidden Job Market
on LinkedIn
Most job seekers believe that adding their information in their LinkedIn profile, uploading a resume, and applying to jobs on the platform will land them their dream jobs. However, the science is beyond simply creating a LinkedIn profile.
Here are some practical ways for improving your chances on LinkedIn’s hidden job market:
1. Optimize your LinkedIn profile
Just like Google, LinkedIn is a search engine. It helps users in finding the right people and targeted connections. It’s algorithm that ranks profiles and every piece of content published on the platform. If a user wants to connect with the right people, it is important that they optimize their profile to target the audience. Few points to consider for LinkedIn Profile Optimization:
- Upload a high resolution profile picture of 400x400px. Use a professional head-shot. Set the profile picture’s visibility to everyone.
- Upload a background image of 1584x396px as a branding hook.
- Update your headline and summary with powerful and searchable keywords. Use keywords you want your profile to rank for. You can also add media to your summary section.
- Update your work information and job descriptions.
- Add your relevant skills in the skills section. Ask colleagues, friends, and managers, to endorse your skills. Take assessments to prove your skills.
- Customize your LinkedIn URL.
2. Build your network
Do not treat your LinkedIn only as a job searching tool. Think big, LinkedIn is a networking platform. Meet new people, influencers, subject matter experts. It is important that you build your network strategically. Networking with other users can help you acquire access to hidden job opportunities.
Mistake to avoid, when connecting with people, do not ask for a job referral straight away. This is a common networking mistake and it is a major put-off for connections. Build your reputation and trust. If there is a job in the company, apply and ask your contact for referral, it works better.
Appreciating works well in building your network. Endorsing skills is one way to encourage people to look at your profile. A little appreciation goes a long way.
3. Create content that interests your network
One of the easiest ways to make other users remember you is through creating and sharing quality and engaging content. Make a content calendar and create posts in advance. The best way to get the attention of your network is to create and share content that is targeted to your objectives. Presenting yourself as a subject matter expert is important.
For instance: if a digital marketer shares articles on the relevance of marketing in this day and age, will help him engage with relevant community. Engagement does not start quickly, it takes time. LinkedIn algorithm slowly recognizes the content to show to a wider network. It is important to post regularly. Use of appropriate hashtags and tagging also helps in outreach.
In addition to these 3 tips, you should also consider joining relevant groups on the platform and follow companies you are interested in. These may only help you explore the surface as there is much more you need to learn by taking a deeper diver.
These seemingly simple steps can help in tapping into some interesting opportunities on LinkedIn’s hidden job market.
