Networking (people) and hidden job market

[hopedale]

Hate seeing the number of GS folks getting laid off and looking for work. Just as mush as I hate how my company continues to look for ways to send jobs overseas.

With that said I've been studying to renew existing certifications and obtaining a few I set a goal for some time ago. Also, and like the title says I've been reading\studying up on the hidden job market and trying to improve on my networking skills.

For those that have not heard bout the hidden job market, what I'm talking about are the jobs that companies open, and never get advertised. By networking with the right people, when that job is about to get opened, someone you've networked with remembers you have that skill, so they put your name in the hat for the job. And in most cases you'll be interviewed before the position even opens.

So, for those of you on the GS that are great networkers, what tips and tricks can you share?

[Razorback01]

PM sent.

[hopedale]

PM replied

[GarGuy]

When I was in the corporate world... All the really good jobs got filled on the golf course or at the deer lease. Many of the postings were just a formality. We had a darn good idea who would be a good fit before the job was ever made public. Random strangers applying just didn't get the job. That said they did get their name out there and interviews helped with the networking next time.

This may not seem fair but in reality, when I was building a team, I had to have people that were a good fit professionally and personally. Remember you are auditioning for the next job every day. Even before you know its coming open.

[BigL]

I personally attend a lot of meetups in my field. I go learn something new, present topics, etc.and have built a pretty good reputation around town. I just talked to someone who wanted to pick my brain about a topic that I presented on recently. Ended up being a job interview and she said she was about to write the job description and requirements for it and pretty much said it's mine if I want it but would take 4-6 weeks before it will be fully approved. I wasn't looking for a job then, just networking and learning and sharing in my field. I told her that once it's posted I'd love to continue the discussion.