You won’t find it on Seek. There’s no link to click, no job ad to scroll. The shadow job market—roles that are filled through networks, internal referrals, or quiet outreach—is where a significant percentage of hiring happens. And in today’s shifting economic climate, it’s favouring those who know how to position themselves before the opening even exists.
While this might feel unfair or inaccessible, it’s not about being in the right clique—it’s about being intentional.
Visibility Beats Volume
While others blast out 20 applications a day, proactive candidates invest in conversations. They connect with hiring managers, reach out to past colleagues, and show up where industry discussions are happening. Research from LinkedIn shows that up to 85% of jobs are filled through networking, not formal applications.
The takeaway? If you’re relying only on job boards, you’re missing the majority of the market.
Strategic Persistence Wins
Engaging the shadow job market requires a mindset shift. You’re not just applying; you’re building a long game. That means following up without fear of being a pest, asking smart questions that demonstrate value, and being prepared when opportunity strikes. This could be as simple as keeping a shortlist of companies you’re interested in and checking in quarterly with someone on their team.
This isn’t about fake networking. It’s about showing curiosity, consistency, and the ability to hold your own in a conversation—even when there’s nothing immediate to gain. Thoughtful engagement now plants seeds for opportunities later.
Position Yourself Before You’re Needed
Being proactive means thinking like a problem-solver. What challenges are businesses in your space facing? How could your skills make a difference? Craft your outreach to speak directly to that, and you position yourself as a resource, not a résumé in a pile.
This new financial year presents a valuable opportunity to reassess your job search strategy. Don’t just refresh your résumé—refresh your approach. Be early. Be helpful. Be visible. The opportunities are there. They’re just not always advertised.
Want to understand how you respond to pressure, setbacks, or challenges this financial year? Start with our MTQ Lite assessment – a free tool designed to help you explore your mental toughness profile.
