A common misconception about looking for a new job is that all of these indemand positions will be easily visible on sites like LinkedIn, Glassdoor and Monster. Unfortunately, you’re incorrect.

Many available positions are regarded as 'hidden' and are never seen by the majority of jobseekers. Instead of implementing an advertising campaign, employers will fill these available positions by word-of-mouth, headhunting or simply by recruiting internally. Knowing how to get yourself in the loop for these specific jobs could give you a major boost when it comes to finding your next role. 

Getting The Word Out 

By utilizing your network efficiently it could be your main way in terms of sourcing these hidden positions. Past employers, colleagues, friends, family and just about anyone you meet can form your potentially vast network. For serious jobseekers, even the most casual virtual meetings should be treated as a potential job lead. Webinars in particular can provide you the potential career enthusiast with an invaluable opportunity in order to meet a large number of useful contacts to expand your reach. 

If you're looking for your first job after graduation, teachers or professors can be an invaluable source of information about the current job market. As known experts in their field, they are bound to have contacts in the industry and will know your strengths better than anyone. Make the best use of your college career facility, no matter how distant the idea of getting a job appears in the near future. 

Making The Move Forward

Even if an employer doesn't have any available jobs at the moment, they might potentially be willing to create a position if an exceptional applicant comes along. This occurs when you contact companies on a prospective basis to inquire if they have any opportunities for somebody with your specific skill set. 

The most courteous way to carry this out involves giving them a call and then following up with an email and making sure to include a recent copy of your resume and also a cover letter as well. It's generally good practice to get hold of the department manager that you're looking to work for who will then pass you onto the relevant person in the recruiting team to follow up with. 

In addition to searching for hidden jobs, you still need to continue applying for the positions that are already visible through your regular job searching methods. This will let you know the kinds of job descriptions that are currently on the market. 

If you're adamant on working for a certain company and simply can't find a way in, consider applying for a lower tier position and being willing to work your way up. Then you can use your contacts on the inside and be the first to hear about new roles.

Keeping up with the endless number certifications and training available can pay off no matter what field you are in.

Becoming certified has helped professionals earn promotions from their previous positions. In today’s corporate world with ever-changing technology and business needs, it’s important for longtime workers in a specific industry to demonstrate that they are competitive. For some, certifications and continuing education are proof that not only can they do the job, but they are also committed to the work and excel in their career field. 

Jobs have expanded and so has the need for continuing education. Education is a critical component in everyone’s skills toolbox, but certification is the mark of excellence for a specific profession.

Certification Benefits

Certifications have helped many professionals achieve a desired role. If you decide to pursue certification and training, it is a powerful sign and testament to becoming a leader. Studying for the certification exam isn’t the end of training. Every few years, you might need to complete several hours of education, experience and leadership through meetings, conferences and courses to maintain your designations. 

Promote Your Certifications & Continuing Education

If you want those coveted initials after your name, seek additional information. In the time you’ve taken since attaining both certifications, you might come to realize what an invaluable investment it has been for both you and your employer.

Always keep your resume updated with your most recent training and skills. Additionally, you can keep your supervisor up-to-date on any training activities such as conferences, workshops, seminars and webinars.

Use your certification in the job search process by highlighting the areas tested on for certification, such as organizational planning and any additional relevant skills. 

Certified Advice For You

Are you thinking about pursuing your own certification and continuing education? Some key elements to include in your plan are: continuing education, certification, training and don’t forget good old fashioned networking. Explore the options available to you and then give your answer, especially when it comes to taking on new projects in your current role in the workplace.

Around the world, people are doing their best to stay home in order to slow the spread of coronavirus. At a time when people are socially distancing, there is even more of a need to be social and finding creative ways to do just that. People are relying on technology more than ever before to help them stay connected to everything from meetings and job interviews to friends and family. 

People often associate networking with casual conversations, elevator pitches and stacks of business cards. However, the key to successful networking is to get to know people on a one to one basis while having genuine conversations. You have the unique opportunity to learn about a job opening, get career advice, find a mentor, meet a future colleague and vice versa.

Right now a lot of people are working remotely, managing businesses virtually and taking care of their friends and family in addition to their own health needs. Reframing the art of networking when it comes to leading with how you can provide value to other people as they navigate this “new normal”.

Share What You Have To Offer

Take a hint from the sudden influx of virtual learning opportunities and share your in demand skill set. Personal and group fitness instructors have taken to social media in order to share free or discounted at-home workouts. Teachers have hosted virtual classes on social media for parents who are struggling to balance work and homeschooling. Financial planners have shared money advice for small business owners and individuals. Accountants have helped people understand tax relief programs and new filing deadlines. Technologically inclined individuals have taught people how to use FaceTime, Zoom, Skype and other tools to learn what is the best way to stay connected in their personal and professional lives. Whatever you're good at, make authentic connections by using your expertise to create value for others.

Finding Relevant Online Networking Opportunities

Any industry organizations, college career departments and alumni groups are all hosting online networking events so people can connect safely. Talk with like minded individuals on Facebook or in LinkedIn groups. Learn new skills, job search tips and join the conversation. Write meaningful comments and share your knowledge.

Schedule Virtual Meetings

If you connect with someone at an in-person networking event and think you could help one another, send a follow-up email or Google invite so you can get together for coffee in the upcoming weeks. If you connect with someone at an online networking event or in a group, send an email and make sure to include your LinkedIn information as well.

Normally it is best practice to email your strongest professional connections often enough so that you don’t just reach out when you have a favor—like that you need them to be a reference for your job search or pass your resume along to their friend who works at your target company, etc.

Networking With Your Colleagues

Whether it is online or in-person, the best way to network with your current colleagues is to impress them. Demonstrate that you consistently do a great job and are pleasant to work with. The soft skills that will impress people the most in the remote-work world are communication, time-management, independence and prioritization.

Check in with your manager and team often in order to keep them aware of what you are working on and what you’ve accomplished. Ask if there is anything else you can help with. Better yet, if you see projects that need to be done or ways something can improve, offer to tackle them. Reread all your emails and chat messages before sending to see if there are ways you can organize the information more clearly like by having lists, bullet points and action items. 

Your co-workers will be impressed by your organization, dedication and proactivity. They’ll be grateful, especially if they are at home with the kids or even taking care of someone. 

Don’t Hesitate To Reach Out!

You never know what people are going through in their personal lives. People you meet through online networking and in your existing professional network could have a lot on their plate during this very uncertain time. Connect with them on social media so you can get a sense of how they are doing.

Social media is considered a general highlight these days, but people have been more vulnerable and open lately. Use it to your advantage while utilizing email as the first place you connect with someone. Request a call or video chat if it is necessary or if they initiate. Remember that one of the best ways you can help your co-workers and loved ones is to make sure that you take care of your health first so you can be there for them in return.