The job market continues to evolve, and so must your job search strategies. This updated list of “cheat codes” will help you dig deeper, access hidden opportunities, and make authentic connections with hiring teams using modern resources.
Let’s dive into 30+ unconventional job search hacks that can transform your career search.
1. Boolean Searches for Niche Roles
Boolean searches help you locate highly specific roles that match your expertise. Try searches like:
site:https://jobs.smartrecruiters.com/ AND "or equivalent" AND "strategy" AND "digital" AND remote AND director
This precise search reveals job listings that may not appear in standard searches.
Here’s a list of ATS (Applicant Tracking System) direct job search mechanisms you can use to improve job discovery and access ATS-managed job postings directly:
-
iCIMS Career Portal
Many companies use iCIMS for their career portals. To search for jobs specifically on iCIMS:
- Go to https://careers.icims.com/ and search for companies directly on their platform.
- Use Google to search with “site:.com” and relevant keywords for specific roles. For example:
-
Workday Job Boards
Workday is one of the most widely used ATS systems among large corporations:
- Go to Workday Career Site and enter the specific company name if you know it uses Workday.
- Alternatively, use Google with
site:myworkdayjobs.complus keywords. For example: -
Greenhouse Job Listings
Greenhouse is popular with startups and medium-sized businesses:
- Head to https://boards.greenhouse.io/ to browse jobs from Greenhouse users.
- Or, use Google to search for specific positions on Greenhouse-hosted sites:
-
Lever Job Boards
Lever offers customizable job boards often used by tech and growth-focused companies:
- Go to https://jobs.lever.co/ to browse.
- For more tailored searches, try a Google search:
Jobvite supports multiple companies, especially in healthcare and retail:
- Use https://jobs.jobvite.com/ to look for postings or browse by company.
- Google search example for Jobvite listings:
-
SuccessFactors Job Search
Many global companies, particularly in finance and consulting, use SAP SuccessFactors:
- Check individual company career sites using SuccessFactors.
- Google search method:
-
BrassRing Job Listings
BrassRing is used by companies like Ford and Coca-Cola:
-
SmartRecruiters Job Boards
SmartRecruiters is popular with tech firms and some large businesses:
- Check https://www.smartrecruiters.com/jobs for company postings.
- Or, use Google:
-
ADP Recruiting Platform
ADP Recruiting serves many midsize and large companies:
- Visit https://jobs.adp.com/ for ADP-specific job boards.
- Search using:
-
JazzHR Job Listings
Often used by small to mid-sized companies, JazzHR posts jobs to customized sites:
- Direct Google search example:
-
BambooHR Job Boards
BambooHR is used frequently by startups and small businesses:
- Use Google to target specific jobs hosted on BambooHR:
-
ClearCompany Job Listings
Popular with nonprofits and midsize companies, ClearCompany hosts job boards:
- Use Google search to target specific roles:
2. Identify Key Hiring Team Members with Targeted Phrases
Look for phrases like “reports to” in job descriptions. Use these clues to identify hiring team members, research them on LinkedIn, and build connections by engaging with their content.
3. Set Google Alerts for Specific Job Titles
Create Google Alerts for job titles or skills like “Digital Strategy Director remote” to receive email notifications whenever new listings appear.
4. Use LinkedIn Recruiter Posts for Hidden Job Leads
Instead of outdated employee advocacy tools, search LinkedIn for posts from recruiters actively hiring in your field. Following these recruiters can give you an early look at jobs they are promoting directly.
5. Monitor Company Blogs and Press Releases for New Initiatives
Companies announce expansions or new projects in blogs or press releases before they list roles. Set alerts for news on companies you’re interested in, then reach out proactively to inquire about future opportunities.
6. Reverse Engineer Job Descriptions on LinkedIn
Find a job you like, copy keywords from the description, and search for similar profiles on LinkedIn. This approach provides insight into what recruiters seek and can help you optimize your own profile.
7. Build Rapport by Engaging with Content Creators
Identify hiring managers or industry leaders on LinkedIn. Engage with their posts genuinely, and establish rapport by offering insightful comments and sharing relevant content.
8. Create Value-Driven DMs
Reach out to team members with a value-focused message. If you’ve researched a company project, send a DM sharing ideas or resources relevant to their work—without directly asking for a job.
9. Track Job Leads via Industry Podcasts
Many leaders discuss growth plans on industry-specific podcasts. Listen to relevant episodes, and use the insights to engage with these leaders on LinkedIn.
10. Leverage University Career Services Networks
Instead of LinkedIn’s alumni tool, try your university’s career services platform or job board, which often posts exclusive opportunities. Many universities now have digital career hubs for alumni to network and post jobs.
11. Monitor Hashtags for Job Announcements
Search for job-related hashtags across LinkedIn and Instagram. Many companies use these tags to advertise roles, such as #HiringNow or #OpenRoles.
12. Access Specialized Job Boards for Hidden Opportunities
Use new specialized platforms like Welcome to the Jungle (for tech startups), Remote OK, and Wellfound (previously AngelList) for roles that aren’t posted on mainstream boards.
13. Explore Reddit Communities and Discord Servers for Leads
Niche subreddits (like r/careeradvice) and Discord servers often have industry insiders sharing job leads and company insights.
14. Discover Freelance-to-Full-Time Roles
Some companies prefer to hire freelancers or contractors as a pipeline to full-time roles. Apply to freelance platforms like Contra and Upwork to secure flexible, potentially long-term roles.
15. Search Job Listings Using Unique Skill Keywords
Instead of job titles, try using skill-based keywords in search engines. Skills like “data analysis” or “UX research” will often bring up listings where the job title may vary.
16. Use Career Coaches for Insider Info
Career coaches can offer inside information on hiring trends and open roles within their networks. Many coaches also share exclusive openings with clients.
17. Target Companies in Startup Accelerator Programs
Startups in accelerator programs like 500 Startups or Techstars are often looking to scale. These companies may offer unique growth roles.
18. Leverage Online Networking Events and Industry Groups
Instead of LinkedIn’s older group feature, many industries now host virtual networking events through Eventbrite or platforms like Circle for professionals to connect and share job leads.
19. Job Pattern Analysis
Track patterns in job postings from companies. Consistent job openings in a specific department often signal expansion. Reach out to team leaders to express interest before positions are listed.
20. Make Your Resume ATS-Friendly with Keywords
Match your resume keywords to job descriptions using tools like Jobscan. This will optimize your resume for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and increase your chances of passing initial screenings.
21. Contribute to GitHub (Tech Roles)
If you’re in tech, create or contribute to projects on GitHub. Recruiters often scout contributors’ profiles for talent.
22. Tap Into Meetups and Virtual Conferences
Attend industry-specific Meetups or webinars where potential hiring managers speak. Engage actively in Q&A sessions and networking rooms to build connections.
23. Apply to Long-Listed Jobs
If a job listing is over 30 days old, it could indicate hiring challenges. Reference this in your application, offering yourself as a quick solution to their need.
24. Find Salary Insights via Online Tools
Use sites like Levels.fyi and Payscale to check salary ranges at target companies. This data gives you leverage for informed negotiation.
25. Follow Companies with Recent Funding on Crunchbase
Companies that recently raised funding typically have hiring needs. Set up alerts on Crunchbase to get updates on companies within your field.
26. Search Company Hashtags on Social Media
Follow company hashtags on LinkedIn and Instagram. Companies often share open roles under unique hashtags related to hiring.
27. Use LinkedIn’s “Open to Work” Filter to Network with Job Seekers
LinkedIn allows you to search for users with the “open to work” badge. Connect with these users to share leads and tips.
28. Uncover Anticipated Hiring Plans via News Alerts
Search terms like “anticipated opening” or “expansion” in Google Alerts. These phrases are often used when companies discuss growth but haven’t listed roles yet.
29. Research Hiring Trends with LinkedIn Insights
LinkedIn Insights can help you track which companies are expanding quickly in your field, helping you target companies on a growth trajectory.
30. Network by Volunteering for Industry-Related Causes
Join volunteer opportunities in your industry. Volunteering provides the chance to network naturally with company employees and even hiring managers.
31. Engage in Webinars Hosted by Target Companies
Attend webinars where company insiders speak. Many companies host informational webinars for potential candidates or thought leadership, providing an opportunity to ask questions and connect post-event.
32. Leverage LinkedIn’s Sales Navigator for Job Leads
LinkedIn’s Sales Navigator allows you to track specific roles and companies. Use it to monitor hiring trends and engage with hiring team members through relevant connections.
33. Build Connections with Recently Hired Professionals
Reach out to contacts who recently joined companies on your target list. They may have insider information on company needs and can provide a direct referral.
Traditional job boards and resumes are just one way to approach job hunting these days. By using these creative job search hacks, you can stand out, access hidden roles, and make genuine connections. Ready to put these cheat codes to work? Bookmark this page, and stay tuned to WithCaliber’s blog for more innovative career strategies.
