Cracking the Code on the Hidden Job Market: The Power of Performance
The last time I applied for a job was 1987 — fresh out of university. After applying and being rejected on 24 occasions, the 25th resulted in an acceptance.
For the ensuing 30 years, I ran and transformed businesses across 30 countries as a member of 3 different firms.
Never once, did I apply for a job or new assignment.
Instead, I received phone calls – driven by my performance.
In the competitive landscape of the job market, securing a position can often feel like an uphill battle. Job seekers tirelessly send out applications, hoping for a favorable response, only to be met with a string of rejections.
The Hidden Job Market: A Closer Look
Before delving into the performance formula that played a crucial role in my journey, it’s essential to understand the concept of the hidden job market. It refers to unadvertised job opportunities that are not openly advertised to the public.
Instead, they are often filled through internal referrals, networking, or headhunting. These hidden gems make up a significant portion of job openings, and tapping into this market can be a game-changer for job seekers.
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Performance: The Ultimate Differentiator
In my pursuit of career success, I realized that the key to cracking the hidden job market lay in the performance formula: Performance = attitude + hard work minus hypocrisy.
These three components acted as the ultimate differentiator, setting apart successful candidates from the rest.
Attitude: The Foundation of Success
Attitude, the first element of the performance formula, is like the foundation of a strong building. Employers seek individuals who exhibit a positive, growth-oriented mindset. A willingness to learn, adapt, and take on challenges with enthusiasm can leave a lasting impression. I always made sure to display an optimistic outlook, emphasizing my ability to overcome obstacles and continuously improve even amidst adverse conditions.
Hard Work: The Fuel for Progress
Hard work is the engine that drives achievement. Demonstrating a strong work ethic and a commitment to going the extra mile showcases your dedication and value to potential employers. In my journey, I leveraged my work ethic as a selling point, sharing instances where my persistence led to remarkable results. Employers appreciate candidates who put in the effort and have a track record of delivering exceptional outcomes.
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Minus Hypocrisy: Authenticity Wins
Authenticity is an indispensable aspect of the performance formula. Employers appreciate genuine candidates who are honest about their skills, experiences, and aspirations. Pretending to be someone you’re not or exaggerating achievements might get you through the door, but it won’t sustain a successful career. I showcased my authentic self, highlighting both my strengths and areas for growth. This honesty resonated with employers and fostered a deep level of trust.
The Power of Perseverance: My Personal Experience
As mentioned earlier, my initial job search in 1987 was a series of disappointments. However, embracing the performance formula, my attitude remained positive, my work ethic unwavering, and my authenticity intact. Finally, on my 25th application, I received that one “Yes” that changed my life.
This formula continued to guide me, opening doors in the hidden job market that were otherwise elusive.
Conclusion
Cracking the code on the hidden job market is an art, not just a stroke of luck. Embracing the performance formula of attitude + hard work minus hypocrisy can significantly increase your chances of success. As my own journey demonstrated, perseverance and authenticity are essential elements that lead to long-lasting career achievements.
Remember, the hidden job market is out there waiting to be explored, and with the right formula, you too can unlock its potential and secure the career of your dreams.
Bret’s specialty is shaping winning cultures and teams that deliver amidst volatile, uncertain and even crisis conditions.
For 30 years across 30 countries in the international banking and wealth management space, he’s run large, complex, high-growth businesses and an array of product lines while serving as Executive Director on subsidiary boards of the largest banks in two countries.
As a country and regional CEO, Bret successfully transformed ecosystems, built inclusive and diverse leadership teams, upgraded performance management systems and revamped faltering businesses to generate sustained profitability in both benign and adverse market conditions.
He has grown profitable businesses in complex regulatory jurisdictions and have applied my extensive experience delivering corporate governance requirements including the build-out of internal risk management detection systems, risk process frameworks and compliance teams, which underpins his well-established track record of building highly-engaged, productive and profitable teams.
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Header Image Credit: Israel Torres. Find it here.
