The 3 x Secret Visibility Strategies For Top Candidates
The 3 Secret Visibility Strategies for Top Candidates
In today's competitive job market, especially for international candidates, standing out is essential. Many skilled candidates struggle to break through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and hiring funnels designed to filter out the majority of applicants, which often leaves only 1-3% of resumes actually viewed by hiring managers. However, there are visibility strategies that can significantly increase your chances of getting noticed by employers, even in overseas job markets. Here, we’ll cover three key strategies for enhancing your visibility and attracting job opportunities without relying solely on online applications.
1. Direct Approach Method: Get Into the Hiring Pool
When companies have vacancies, their first step is often to search their internal database, or "pool," of candidates who have shown interest in the past. To be included in this pool, you must reach out directly to targeted employers, building relationships and positioning yourself as a viable candidate. This approach, which bypasses the ATS system, gives you a much higher chance of being seen.
- How to Get in the Pool: Start by identifying at least 50-100 companies that fit your ideal job criteria. Create a set of optimised CV/resume, plus a Recruiters cover letter and add it to their hiring pool. This DOES NOT include applying for jobs online! This proactive step can lead to a 15-40% success rate compared to the mere 1-2% rate associated with traditional online applications.
2. Networking and Relationship Building: Develop Connections Inside Your Target Companies With The Secret "Magic 100" Method
If companies cannot find the right fit in their internal pool, they often turn to personal referrals and recommendations before considering external candidates. This means having connections within these companies can dramatically increase your chances of landing a job. Building a network of contacts within your targeted employers helps keep you top-of-mind for roles that may not even be advertised.
- Build Your Network: Aim to connect with around 100 people within your ideal companies. Start by engaging with employees on LinkedIn, joining relevant groups, and attending industry events, even virtually. Engage consistently and genuinely—over time, these connections will become aware of your skills and availability, and they may even recommend you for roles when vacancies arise.
3. The Hidden Job Market: Your Competitors Do Not Know This!
Most job vacancies are never publicly advertised. Instead, they are filled through informal channels like company websites, employee referrals, or even social media posts. Additionally, many employers prefer hiring through these channels to save on costs associated with traditional job postings. Accessing this hidden job market requires a proactive strategy where you showcase your value through personal branding.
- Creating a Visible, Valuable Profile: On platforms like LinkedIn, make sure your profile stands out with a clear, optimized headline, a compelling summary, and relevant content that highlights your skills and accomplishments. A well-maintained personal brand attracts potential employers and even leads to unsolicited job offers. For example, regularly share posts that demonstrate your industry knowledge or skills—this can help establish you as an authority and bring visibility to your profile.
By following these three strategies, you position yourself to be noticed in the competitive job market, enhancing your visibility and opening doors to opportunities that might otherwise remain hidden. Rather than spending all your energy on online applications with low success rates, focus on proactive approaches that bring your skills and value directly to the attention of potential employers.