What Is an Unlisted Job?

An unlisted job is one that the hiring company prefers to keep “on the down-low“. Meaning there is little or no chance of you finding out about it using regular job search channels. So why are some jobs unlisted?

You’d think that a company would want to let as many people as possible know about a position they need to fill. But there are some reasons why they might prefer to keep it secret … at least for the moment:

• The company doesn’t want to be bombarded by tons of resumes — especially ones that don’t come close to their needs. Open listings can bring a barrage of resumes that just don’t fit.
• For the time being, the hiring company has given the search for a qualified candidate to a headhunter. Headhunters (a type of recruiter also known as executive search firms) conduct their search privately using their own methods to target only highly-qualified candidates.
• The job hasn’t been officially approved yet, though it is real and most likely will happen. But hearing about it in advance might get your foot in the door before too many feet push ahead of you. (See below.)
• The employer prefers to use their own networking channels to find someone. This may be more common in some industries. But it also may simply be a way of saving on hiring fees.
• There can also be strategic reasons. Maybe they’re trying to keep their plans from competitors or the prying eyes of news media. Or even from investors.
• Also … the job may be on their website only and not found on traditional job listing sites.

How do you find unlisted jobs?

The best way to find jobs not yet publicly visible is through networking. People you know. Members of organizations / online groups you belong to. Prior business contacts. Former teachers or folks you went to school with. People you meet at a party. Even friends and family. And the list goes on.

Another good source might be found in articles about companies and industries you’re targeting  You can contact them directly, mentioning any relevant info you discovered that brought you to them.

Also, as mentioned above, regularly check the websites of companies you’re interested in — even ones you’ve interviewed with before and felt a connection. And on that last point, stay in touch with those companies to see if they have any jobs that have not yet made it to the job boards!

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