Job search: Top tips

The hidden job market is comprised of jobs that are not widely advertised on job search databases like Indeed, Monster, and LinkedIn. They are discovered and filled informally through word-of-mouth or within a company by existing employees changing positions. Here are some strategies to access this hidden job market.

October 29, 2025

Researching the hidden job market

Accessing the early job market

Which employers in your area hire people with similar degrees or past experiences as your own? Look at these companies’ career pages for upcoming events or recruitment sessions. Having a proactive mindet can make a big difference. Begin exploring opportunities early so you can connect with professionals, attend events, and position yourself ahead of other applicants.

Directories

  • Directories are online databases that allow you to find lists of companies you might not have known existed. Some examples include The Red Book, 211 Ontario, and The Hamilton Chamber of Commerce.
  • Search online for directories specifically in your field or area of interest, like retirement homes, children’s services, shelters, etc.
  • Use directories to create a ‘leads list’ of companies and their key contacts, so you can check their postings regularly and strategize your networking.

Job banks

  • Job banks allow you to search directly for available job openings in your area.
  • Include a cover letter, unless specifically directed otherwise. Also, include a short message to the employer when you apply by email.

Networking

  • Let family and friends know that you are job searching, and ask that they keep you informed of any relevant opportunities or referrals
  • Join a professional association in your field of interest. Usually, student rates are more affordable than regular rates, and these provide a great opportunity to connect with experienced professionals in your field.
  • Use the MacConnect to search for professionals in your field or companies of interest, explore other alumni career paths, or ask for a career conversation, resume critique, or mock interview.
  • The LinkedIn Alumni tool is another platform to view others’ career paths and connect with professionals in an area or company of interest to you.
  • LinkedIn provides a way to keep track of your professional network, connect with friends, and maintain a professional online presence so recruiters gain a positive impression of you.

Statistics show that 1 in 12 informational interviews leads to a job offer compared to 1 in 200 resumes (QuintCareers.com).

  • Informational interviews are a way for you to learn more about people who work in a certain role,
    company, or industry, and build your network.
  • People working in the field are usually more informed of current trends in the workplace and can
    offer you useful tips.
  • Ask open-ended questions about the company, their role, and the field or industry.
  • Informational interviews are not the place to ask directly for a job. However, the interviewers may ask you for a copy of your resume, or offer to give it to someone else they know who may be interested in you.
  • Always remember to have a copy of your resume and business card on hand in case they ask.
  • Take advantage of these sessions to learn about company recruitment cycles, skills they are
    looking for and to assess your interest and fit within the company.
  • September, October, January and February are peak times for employers to come to campus. Check the Events Calendar on OSCARplus to ensure you do not miss any opportunities.
  • Discussing a few things you learned from a company information/recruitment session in your cover letter is a great way to show interest in the company and set yourself apart from other candidates.
  • Employers use this opportunity to network with as many interested candidates as possible. This is
    your chance to showcase yourself in a professional manner instead of just applying online.
  • Have your elevator pitch prepared, dress for success, and bring copies of your resume!
  • Don’t forget to research companies ahead of time so that you can ask insightful and clarifying
    questions rather than “so what does your company do?”
  • Connect to recruiters you spoke with on LinkedIn to reiterate your interest and ask for an informational interview.

Tailoring your resume and cover letter

Incorporating key words from the job posting into your resume and cover letter, as many companies use a computerized applicant tracking system (ATS) which filters out applications based on key words before any live person will see it.

Read the qualifications in job postings carefully. If you have a desired qualification, present it clearly at the top of your Highlights of Qualifications section and be sure to include how you have demonstrated it.

Continue to build your career skills

  • The SSC offers professional services on resume writing, skills, interviewing, LinkedIn, job search coaching, accommodation and disclosure in the workplace coaching, etc.
  • Explore Job Search Essentials (JSE) – a free, flexible online program on Avenue to Learn to complete at your own pace. Focus on finding your skills, improving your resume and cover letter, accessing the hidden job market, networking, interviewing, negotiating job offers and more. Registration is posted on OSCARplus (under Student Success Centre > Events) at the start of every month.
  • Check OSCARplus for events, company recruitment sessions, workshops, jobs and volunteer postings to support your professional development all year long..
  • Look for work and volunteer opportunities to build your career ready skills.