Networking and accessing the hidden job market

A large percentage of jobs never get advertised so gaining access to the ‘hidden’ job market is a useful skill to learn. The best way to do this is through platforms such as LinkedIn. This is a powerful tool that you can use to network with employers and other industry professionals. You can search for contacts that do a similar job in New Zealand and ask questions about your occupation, they are the best people to give you some insight into what it’s like to do the job in New Zealand.

The value of a LinkedIn profile

Setting up a smart and professional looking LinkedIn profile will help to get you noticed. As part of our job search assistance we will provide you with a CV that NZ employers are accustomed to. You can take the information across to your LinkedIn profile to ensure your information is aligned. Employers will do their own research during the recruitment process so making sure there are no discrepancies is crucial.

Having a presence on LinkedIn also increases your visibility to the job market. It’s a two-way street for candidates and employers. It’s important to keep it updated with any new qualifications and skills or you could miss out on an opportunity!

Top tips for your LinkedIn profile

Headline

Make the most of the headline – use this to grab attention! A one-liner to sell who you are and what you have to offer.

About

Use the ‘About’ section to further explain what you have to offer a company. Talk about your skills, areas of expertise, achievements and accolades, what drives you. Give potential employers some idea of who you are and what you’re passionate about.

Experience

There is specific section to list your experience where you can go into the different roles you have previously held and the employers that you have worked for. There is room for adding material to showcase examples of your work or achievements with PDF or links, for example.

You can add statistics for different aspects of your role to further showcase your achievements. For example; sales targets achieved or cost/budget goals achieved.

Credentials

Make sure you add specific qualifications and industry specific certifications. Ask yourself what does the industry typically look for when hiring someone and put this at the top of your list. You need to grab their attention!

Recommendations

Finally, be brave and ask for recommendations. Asking for recommendations can be uncomfortable but again, this should not be underestimated. LinkedIn has a section for you send a request to any of your connections to request a recommendation. Choose wisely so you get positive responses that will attest to your competence and experience.

One last check for spelling and grammar before you finish!