How to Land a Job Before It’s Posted
If you’ve ever wondered how some people seem to land great jobs without ever applying online, you’re not alone. The truth is, a lot of hiring happens behind the scenes—before a job posting ever goes live. This “hidden job market” is made up of opportunities filled through networking, referrals, and internal promotions. The good news? You don’t need to wait for a job to be posted to land one. Here’s how you can get ahead of the competition and tap into those hidden opportunities.
Build Real Connections (Not Just LinkedIn Contacts)
Networking is more than just collecting LinkedIn connections—it’s about building relationships. The more people who know what you do and what you’re looking for, the better your chances of hearing about unadvertised jobs.
- Attend industry events, trade shows, and local meetups.
- Stay active on LinkedIn by engaging with posts from industry leaders.
- Reconnect with former colleagues, managers, or classmates. A quick message like, “Hey, it’s been a while! Let’s catch up soon” can go a long way.
Most companies prefer hiring through referrals because it’s faster and reduces the risk of a bad hire. If you’re on someone’s radar before they even need to fill a position, you’ve already got an advantage.
Target Companies, Not Just Job Boards
Instead of waiting for jobs to pop up online, make a list of companies you’d love to work for and be proactive.
- Follow them on LinkedIn and engage with their content.
- Research their leadership team and see if you have any mutual connections.
- Reach out directly to hiring managers or department heads with a thoughtful message introducing yourself.
Something as simple as, “I admire the work your team is doing at [Company] and would love to connect,” can open doors. Even if they’re not hiring right now, they might keep you in mind when they are.
Have More Conversations (AKA Informational Interviews)
An informational interview isn’t about asking for a job—it’s about learning more about a company, role, or industry while making a connection. And it can be one of the best ways to hear about opportunities before they’re posted.
- Find professionals in your target field and ask for a quick 15- to 20-minute chat.
- Keep it casual: “I’d love to learn more about what you do and how you got into the industry.”
- Follow up with a thank-you message and keep in touch.
A lot of jobs are filled simply because someone had the right conversation at the right time.
Work with Recruiters (They Know About Jobs Before You Do)
Recruiters and staffing agencies are often the first to know about job openings. If you’re not working with one yet, now’s the time to start.
- Reach out to recruiters in your industry and let them know what kind of roles you’re looking for.
- Keep your resume updated and be open to contract or temp positions—many of them lead to full-time work.
For example, if you’re in construction, firms like Matrix HR have direct connections with employers who need workers fast. Having a recruiter in your corner means you’ll hear about jobs before they hit the job boards.
Make Sure Employers Can Find You
Many hiring managers and recruiters look for candidates online before even posting a job. If your digital presence isn’t strong, you could be missing out.
- Keep your LinkedIn profile up to date with a professional photo, detailed experience, and relevant keywords.
- Share industry insights or projects you’ve worked on to position yourself as an expert in your field.
- If you’re open to work, make sure recruiters can see it on your profile.
A strong online presence increases your chances of getting noticed—and contacted—before a job ever goes public.
Be Ready to Move Fast
If you hear about an opportunity through a connection, a recruiter, or an informational interview, you need to be prepared.
- Have an updated resume ready to send at a moment’s notice.
- Know your elevator pitch—be able to quickly explain who you are, what you do, and what kind of opportunity you’re looking for.
- Be available for interviews, even on short notice. Some hidden job market opportunities move fast.
The best jobs aren’t always the ones you find online—they’re the ones you hear about through connections, conversations, and a little bit of strategy. By networking effectively, targeting companies directly, and staying visible to recruiters, you can get ahead of the competition and land a great job before it’s ever posted.
So don’t wait—start reaching out, having conversations, and making connections today. Your next job could be just one conversation away.
Need Help Finding Top Talent?
At Matrix HR, we connect businesses across Canada and the U.S. with top-tier talent across multiple industries. Whether you need skilled trades, temporary labour, or permanent hires, we take the guesswork out of recruiting—so you can focus on growing your business. Let’s build your dream team—risk-free.
www.matrixhr.ca | 1-866-666-9520 | shannon@matrixhr.ca
How to Navigate This Changing Landscape
To succeed in 2025, you’ll need to stay ahead of the curve. Here’s how:
- Keep Learning: Take courses, earn certifications, and stay updated on industry trends.
- Network: Connect with others in your field through social media, events, or professional groups.
- Be Open to Change: The job market is shifting fast, so being flexible is key.
The Bottom Line
The 2025 job market is dynamic and full of opportunity. Whether you’re eyeing tech, sustainability, healthcare, or beyond, there’s a place for you. The secret? Stay curious, keep growing, and embrace the changes that come your way.
Need further advice? Connect with Matrix HR today to see what opportunities lie ahead for you in 2025.
