Learn to find hidden job opportunities in Sweden

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Ziza Madani:
Did you know that there's something called hidden jobs? These are jobs you find in places other than where you would expect to find them, like job search websites.

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Ziza:
Have you heard about hidden jobs before? No? You're not alone. Many people miss out on hidden jobs. Studies show that hidden jobs make up 75 per cent of all available jobs. Knowing how to find these jobs can open up significant opportunities for you if you're job hunting. Welcome to the New in Sweden podcast. A podcast where we explain, give tips, and provide good advice on job searching and working in Sweden. The podcast is aimed at those who are new to the country. Today's episode is all about hidden jobs. We will explain how to find jobs that aren't always advertised. I'm Ziza Madani, joined by my colleague Pär Axelsson, both working here at the Swedish Public Employment Service. Hi, Pär. Today, we're going to talk about hidden jobs. Any guesses on what that is?

Pär:
Hi, Ziza.To me, hidden jobs sound like secret jobs, not visible. But I understand it must mean something else. Please explain.

Ziza:
It's good to know what a visible job is, something you can see. Visible jobs are found where you expect to find them, like on Platsbanken or other job search sites where you always see ads.

Pär:
Okay. But how do you find hidden jobs?

Ziza:
Well, when it comes to finding hidden jobs, you need to think a bit differently. Think about connections.

Pär:
So, I guess, for example, my network can lead to a hidden job? Because I've gotten jobs in the past that weren't advertised.

Ziza:
Yes, exactly. Your network is an excellent way to find hidden jobs. Often, all you have to do is ask your friends and contacts to keep an extra eye out for available positions, maybe where they work. When a job opens up, they'll think of you and recommend you for the job.

Pär:
Yes, and that's exactly what happened to me before. And while we're on the topic of networks, I've actually helped friends find jobs. They used social media, especially LinkedIn, where they stated that they were looking for a job. When I saw that they were looking for a job, I kept that in mind, and recommended a position I knew about.

Ziza:
Good job, Pär. Social media can be used in many ways. Firstly, to seek help from your network on social media. Secondly, to connect with and follow different companies. This way, you'll know when jobs are announced. You can also join groups related to your industry on Facebook, for example.

Pär:
Right. And you can search for “#jobopening” or “#jobin” and the city you live in. If you want to know more, we have a podcast on this, and several webinars. Just search for “social media” on arbetsformedlingen.se/play.

Ziza:
Exactly. Another way to find hidden jobs is through research.

Pär:
What do you mean by that?

Ziza:
Doing research means you should google, read daily and industry newspapers, check the news, and see what's happening in the city where you want to work. There's one thing I want you to keep an extra eye on: what new things are starting up? Is it a new sports arena? A new store? Or perhaps a new school?

Pär:
I think I know what you're getting at. So, for example, if it's a store opening up, it means there might be a lot of new jobs by the tills, in the warehouse, or in the deli. By being aware of this, you are a step ahead and can send in your application before everyone else.

Ziza:
Well done, Pär. Another thing you can do is to keep an eye out for opportunities when you are in a store, workshop, or school. If you see something that you could do, ask to speak with the person in charge.

Pär:
This reminds me of a situation.

Ziza:
Tell me.

Pär:
Well, if you're in a grocery store, and it's crowded with people shopping, and the queues are growing, they might need staff. Take the opportunity to promote yourself. Ask if they need some extra help.

Ziza:
Yes, exactly. You see an opportunity and how you can contribute to solving it.

Pär:
I used to apply for jobs spontaneously when I was young. I walked around with my CV and cover letter. Sometimes it worked. The good thing about that, was that no one else applied for those jobs because they weren't advertised. I had no competition. And I think it's the same today, right?

Ziza:
That's right. And we must not forget that there are other places where you can find hidden jobs. Paper ads on company windows, for example. Or you can register with recruitment and staffing agencies. They will contact you if your profile matches a specific job.

Pär:
Yes, hidden jobs are everywhere. You might have to think outside the box and look at other places than Platsbanken and regular job search sites.

Ziza:
Yes. So what do you say, is it clearer now, what a hidden job is?

Pär:
Much clearer. It's simply about always being ready, because you never know when a hidden job comes up. To summarize all the good things you've said, it's about:
One: Looking for jobs that may not exist yet. For example, a school starting up in the city you live in. There might be many jobs there.
Two: Daring to apply for jobs spontaneously.
Three: Talking to your contacts, both in real life and on social media. There's a lot to gain there.

Ziza:
So well summarized, Pär. Let's end today's episode. And to those listening, dare to try one of these and see how it goes. We'll talk to you in the next episode. Take care.

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speaker:
You have been listening to the New in Sweden podcast by Arbetsförmedlingen. You can find all previous episodes at arbetsformedlingen.se/play. If you have any questions, tips, or ideas, please e-mail us at podcast@arbetsformedlingen.se. This episode was produced in the winter of 2024.

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