Did you know that as many as 80% of all available jobs are never advertised? That staggering number is one of the biggest obstacles that job seekers face when searching for employment. Understanding how to access this hidden job market can give you an advantage over your competition.


Here are 5 tips to get you started:


1. Network. Network. Network. The most important first step in accessing the hidden job market is to network. Get out there and talk to anyone and everyone who may be able to give you insight into where there are jobs.


Start by making a list of everyone you can talk to. These people do not have to be friends Cheap Dion Waiters Jersey , or even acquaintances, just anyone with whom you have enough of a common thread to initiate a conversation. Great potential networking contacts include friends, acquaintances, neighbors, relatives Cheap Dwyane Wade Jersey , church members, classmates, teachers, club members, employers Cheap Alonzo Mourning Jersey , supervisors, colleagues, subordinates, clients, customers and fellow association members.


Help these people to help you by making it easy for them. Instead of asking specifically if they know of any job openings Cheap Goran Dragic Jersey , ask them for tips, leads and suggestions. If they know of a job, they'll be sure to mention it. If not, the information and contacts you gain can be invaluable.


2. Research potential employers. Since you'll be applying for a job without seeing a job description, it's important to research the company to find out as much as you can about the tasks Cheap Miami Heat Hats , skills, and experiences they may be looking for. This will help you to write a resume and cover letter that is relevant to their organization.