They Don’t Realize They Need Help

Sometimes, employers don’t recognize their need for assistance until the right candidate appears. It's akin to suddenly feeling hungry when a delicious meal is presented. Many employers simply don’t acknowledge their staffing needs until they encounter the right individual.

“Opportunities don’t happen, you create them.” — Chris Grosser

A few years ago, I approached several employers, and I was astonished by the number of them that expressed interest in hiring me. They had workloads that they hadn’t realized were overwhelming until I showed up.

Consider making a list of potential employers and visiting them directly; you might just find yourself in a fortunate situation. I recommend networking with relevant employees on LinkedIn prior to your visit.

The Importance of Self-Assessment

Landing your ideal job often starts with evaluating your own skills and readiness.

They Are Overwhelmed with Other Tasks

“Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” — Seneca

What if employers have recognized the need to post a job but haven’t gotten around to it? Life can become hectic, and so can the responsibilities of employers. Sometimes, a job posting may simply be pending on HR’s desk, overshadowed by other priorities.

If you find this employer before they can post the job online, your chances of securing the position increase significantly. You would be saving both time and resources for the employer.

They Prefer a Simpler Process

In today’s job market, online applications are the norm. Job seekers often wait for postings to respond to. While this method works for many employers, it can create complications as they manage hundreds or even thousands of applications.

Large organizations may have Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to assist, but smaller firms often lack such resources. They may be inclined to avoid public postings and instead prefer to discuss potential hires via referrals or other informal channels. If you happen to connect with an employer who has a job opening, your chances of landing that role are significantly improved.

They Value Internal Referrals

Many employers lean towards referrals over traditional job postings. It’s a more efficient process. Would you rather sift through hundreds of applications or have a top candidate right in front of you?

Often, employers incentivize referrals once they finalize the hiring process. At every job I’ve held, I’ve been asked if I know anyone who might be a good fit for an upcoming role before it’s made public. Hiring carries its own risks; employers want to mitigate this uncertainty by preferring candidates who come recommended.

If you have connections within a company, reach out to them to learn about their current needs. Understanding their challenges can help you position yourself advantageously.