In the Hidden Job Market you dictate the "Perfect Time"

As specialists in talent acquisition we see the same story every year. The New year brings a surge of resolve, but also a dangerous amount of hesitation. While people wait for the “Perfect Time” to look for a new role, the best opportunities are often snatched up by those who see through the myth's mirage.

The hidden job market rewards the present and prepared. If you want that to be you, then keep reading.

The state of things:

• Much like you, business leaders have spent their quiet moments over the holiday considering the coming year and how they can meet the challenges ahead. That includes working out what skills and experience their teams are going to need. This opens the door for a conversational approach to your search, where leaders can better match what you offer to their needs rather than trying to shoehorn your expertise into a predefined off the shelf role.

• Mike Tyson once said “everyone has a plan until a key staff member returns from holiday to tell you they’re leaving to pursue their dream of making doll shoes” (probably). And just like that, the Hiring Manager’s meticulously crafted plan crumbles before their eyes. Your polished CV might just be the light in the dark that they didn’t know they needed.

• Budgets that were halted by the absence of key personnel begin to whirr into life once more, and a hiring manager with a solution in hand (your CV) is likely to be better received than the one looking for an ad spend code.

• Chart your course while others are still checking the weather. While others are waiting for the mythical “Perfect Time” you’re already meeting the team at their “perfect role”.

Take action:

If all of the above is making too much sense to ignore, then here are a few steps you can take today to kick your search into action:

• Work out your must haves and nice to haves. Use this to research firms that align with your needs and values. By building a picture of your next role, you’ll be amazed how much confidence you’ll carry through your search.

• Build your online presence, share articles you think are relevant to your industry, discuss key challenges you faced or expect to face in your role, connect with people who could link you to your new role. This will give your prospective employer an opportunity to see what’s of interest to you. Oh and keep it professional.

• If that perfect role finds you, take a second to ask “What is the problem they are trying to solve with this role?” and then ask yourself “How can I show them that I have solved this problem before?” You’ll probably stand out more than you think.

• Be prepared! Get your CV ready now, make sure it’s recent and relevant. Here’s a quick guide to help you tackle the ATS if you’re applying for an advertised position.

The hidden job market rewards the present and prepared. Let’s make sure that’s you. Over the next 2 weeks we will share focused posts that will help you secure your new role.