Is there a secret backdoor to the job market? While unposted or “hidden jobs” exist, they’re not that common. Here are the circumstances I’ve seen for hidden jobs: small companies/startups in growth mode, super strategic jobs the employer doesn’t want to notify the market about, and replacement of someone sitting in the job that the company wants to get rid of.

To exponentially increase your odds of landing a job, I agree with LinkedIn’s Get Hired newsletter to think about not just hidden jobs but “early jobs,” jobs that will open up soon. Why early jobs are worth focusing on and what to do:

1. If you are one of the first 25 to apply to a job, your chances of landing the job are 3x higher.
2. Why are your odds higher? Recruiters/hiring managers are paying attention to the search at the beginning, especially for in-house legal jobs where the opening is only approved after there is a big need; so, the manager is likely buried with work and trying to fill right away.
3. How do you find out about early jobs? Through networking. LinkedIn suggests “cultivating genuine and meaningful relationships, rather than simply accumulating contacts.” Do it strategically “by mapping out your professional network [to] pinpoint key mentors, colleagues, and industry insiders who can provide valuable insights and assistance.” Build relationships before the ask so people will want to help you.
4. Use the advance notice to tailor your pitch/resume. The ideal situation: through staying in touch with people authentically, you learn about jobs early. Find out why the job is open, the critical skills needed, and keywords to use. Tailor your resume and pitch, and have your contact recommend you for the job and prep you for the interview. By applying early, you get the best look! I have seen strong candidates who enter a job search too late in the game and don’t get interviewed because the hiring manager already has a favorite.

(I’m written by 100% natural intelligence, no AI)