In Nigeria’s aggressive job market, the very best roles typically by no means make it to job boards.
Which may sound discouraging till you realise it’s additionally a chance. These unadvertised roles, also known as the “hidden job market,” make up a good portion of precise vacancies. They’re crammed by means of referrals, inner promotions, quiet searches, or strategic networking, lengthy earlier than a public job itemizing ever goes dwell.
So, how do you faucet into this hidden world and get forward of the curve?
Right here’s a roadmap to discovering job alternatives in Nigeria earlier than everybody else does.
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1) Leverage Your Community— However Do It Proper
In Nigeria, “who you understand” nonetheless performs an enormous function, however networking is greater than asking for favours. The secret’s to be seen and useful.
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Let former colleagues, mentors, {and professional} acquaintances know you’re exploring new alternatives.
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Attend business meetups, conferences, and webinars, even digital ones.
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Use LinkedIn well: interact with content material, depart considerate feedback, and share insights in your area.
Professional tip: Don’t simply say “I’m in search of a job.” Say “I’m exploring new roles in venture administration inside FMCG, particularly the place innovation is valued.” Be particular and purposeful.
2) Construct Relationships with Recruiters and Hiring Managers
Recruiters are sometimes the gatekeepers to roles that aren’t public but. By forming relationships with them early, you place your self for first consideration when the proper alternative arises.
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Ship a well mannered message introducing your self, your experience, and what sort of roles you’re open to.
3) Make Chilly Outreach Heat
Most individuals hesitate to message decision-makers straight, however a well-crafted message to a hiring supervisor can open sudden doorways.
Instance:
Hello Chika, I’ve adopted XYZ Ltd’s growth into agritech with curiosity. I work as an information analyst with a powerful background in machine studying and would like to discover any upcoming roles in your crew. Pleased to share my CV or portfolio if it’s useful.
4) Monitor Enterprise Tendencies and Development Indicators
Some firms won’t be hiring but, however the indicators are there.
Keep knowledgeable with platforms like TechCabal, Nairametrics, BusinessDay, and LinkedIn Information Nigeria. While you spot development, attain out proactively earlier than they publish that opening.
5) Create Alternatives By way of Freelance or Contract Work
Generally, one of the simplest ways in is thru the aspect door.
Provide to work on a short-term foundation or freelance for firms that suit your dream job profile. Show your worth, and you possibly can be provided a everlasting function earlier than one is even marketed.
This works particularly nicely in:
6) Construct Your Model
A powerful on-line presence can carry alternatives to you, as an alternative of you at all times chasing it.
Being searchable and memorable makes you a part of the dialog earlier than jobs are even mentioned publicly.
7) Get on Unique Expertise Platforms
Some roles are crammed by means of curated platforms earlier than ever being posted to job websites. Examples embody:
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Andela Expertise Cloud
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Toptal (for freelancers)
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LinkedIn’s “Open to Work” function
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WhatsApp and Telegram job teams by business (be selective)
These platforms typically give hiring groups pre-vetted candidates, saving them the effort of sorting by means of a whole bunch of functions.
Essentially the most rewarding alternatives are sometimes the least seen. By being proactive, strategic, and related, you possibly can place your self forward of the curve the place actual alternatives are mentioned, created, and crammed earlier than they’re ever marketed.
Don’t simply apply. Be remembered. Be really useful. Be prepared. Begin trying to find your subsequent function with Pulse Nigeria’s profession web page
