Easy Way To Tap Into The Hidden Job Market

Listen up folk! Always respond to recruiters who reach out to you on LinkedIn or Indeed if you’re actively seeking a job opportunity or even if you’re not on the hunt for a new gig. There are three really good reasons for doing this. I’ve used this strategy personally in the past and I’ve passed it on to my friends who’ve been successful with this as well. I’ve been so successful in fact by making sure I respond to messages that one of the recruiting managers is now one of my really good friends. No, like I don’t think you understand, she’s like a really, really good friend. I’ve met her family, we hangout, she knows all of my business (🤦), and we’ve been friends for a few years now, lol. Hey Arion! 😜

Any who! Back to business, below are the 3 reasons you should respond to a recruiter along with a template you can use if a recruiter reaches out and the role isn’t exactly what you’re looking for. Give it a try, you may be surprised by the responses you receive back!

Reason #1: You tap into the hidden job market and can get first dibs on positions that aren’t even posted (provided you stay connected to said recruiter).

Reason #2: You never know if there are other opportunities within their company that you may really like or if they may know of opportunities from within their own recruiter network of friends. Trust when I say these guys look out for each other sometimes.

Reason #3: LinkedIn algorithms pinpoints recruiters directly to people who are more likely to respond and if you never respond…wellll…you get the picture.

Message template:

Hi <INSERT RECRUITER NAME>,

Thanks for reaching out to me concerning this role! I am currently exploring new opportunities, but would ideally like to find a position that is more along the <INSERT POSITION TITLE(S)> path, earning at least <INSERT DESIRED SALARY> a year. It sounds like this particular role isn’t quite what I am looking for, but do you happen to know of any other opportunities that may be a better fit? If so, I’d love to connect! I’ve attached an updated resume for your review, and can be reached directly via email at <INSERT BEST CONTACT EMAIL ADDRESS> or via phone at <INSERT PHONE NUMBER> moving forward.

FYI, by giving them your resume upfront, even if they don’t have a position for you, they can add it to their database or share it with others, even a hiring manager!

Good luck on the hunt!

Lexi