Cold calling is one of the most effective ways to access the hidden job market in Australia in 2025. This strategy is especially useful for professionals in Sydney and across Australia, where many employers fill roles before they ever advertise them.
What Is the Hidden Job Market?
The hidden job market refers to positions that employers do not publicly advertise. Many employers fill these roles through referrals, networking, or direct contact. In fact, experts estimate that 60% to 80% of jobs in Australia never appear in advertisements, making this market critical for job seekers.
Why Many Jobs Are Hidden
- Employers often fill positions internally before advertising them.
- Some employers create positions specifically for talented individuals who reach out.
- Advertising jobs is costly and time-consuming, so many employers avoid it altogether.
Why Cold Calling Works in the Australian Job Market
Access Opportunities with Low Competition
- Most job seekers apply only to advertised positions. However, cold calling lets you reach roles before others even hear about them.
- This strategy gives you a significant edge over the competition.
Gain an Advantage with Employers
- Employers prefer hiring without paying recruitment agency fees. Therefore, cold calling can often put you in a favorable position.
- By proactively contacting companies, you may become the only candidate for the job, giving you leverage to negotiate your salary.
How to Access the Hidden Job Market Through Cold Calling
Step 1: Identify Target Companies
- Focus on companies in your current or desired industry. To begin with, create a list of companies that align with your skills and career goals.
Step 2: Research Before Contact
- Search company websites, business directories, and online listings for relevant information. Furthermore, ensure you identify the right decision-makers to contact directly.
Step 3: Contact Employers Directly
- Reach out professionally, demonstrating your initiative and interest. After that, follow up consistently but respectfully.
Cold Calling Tips for Job Seekers
Build Confidence and Practice
- Cold calling shows employers you’re proactive and confident. As you practice, start with a small number of calls and gradually increase as you grow more comfortable.
- Persistence makes the process easier over time. It will become more natural with consistent effort.
Stay Consistent
- Consistency is key. Keep going even when the job search feels stressful.
- Ultimately, practice will make the process feel more natural and effective.
What to Do If There Are No Current Openings
Ask About Future Opportunities
- Ask employers whether they expect to have openings in the near future. If they do, inquire about the best time to check back.
- Request referrals or recommendations for other companies that may be hiring. Many managers are willing to refer talented candidates to other hiring companies.
Why Many Jobs Are Never Advertised
- Advertising roles costs money and takes time, so many employers skip it. Instead, they hire proactively or through referrals.
- Some employers create positions specifically for proactive candidates who reach out directly. As a result, cold callers often find opportunities before anyone else.
- Employers may already have ideal candidates in mind even before posting the job publicly.
- Jobs are often posted only as a last resort when the employer cannot find the right candidate.
Why Applicants Avoid Cold Calling
Many job seekers avoid cold calling because it seems quicker to apply to advertised roles. However, advertised jobs usually attract hundreds of applicants, while unadvertised jobs have little or no competition, increasing your chances of success.
Another Way to Access the Hidden Job Market
Networking
- Building professional relationships helps uncover unadvertised opportunities. Networking can lead to referrals and direct job offers.
Also see my article on cold cover letters for unadvertised jobs.
For salary guidance, check: How to answer “What is your expected salary?”.
KMD-Solutions is based in Sydney, NSW, Australia and assists clients throughout the country, including all Australian states and territories.
We also assist clients internationally, including professionals in the USA, Canada, the UK, Europe, India, Brazil, and Japan.
Last updated: 7 February 2026