Hidden Job Market in Nigeria: How 70% of Jobs Are Filled Before They’re Advertised — And How to Tap Into It

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Many people believe that all jobs are posted on websites like LinkedIn, Jobberman, or JobsNaija.ng.
But the truth is surprising:

A large number of vacancies in Nigeria are filled quietly — through referrals, internal recommendations, WhatsApp groups, and industry networks — before they ever go online.

This is known as the Hidden Job Market.

Understanding how this invisible market works can drastically increase your chances of getting hired faster.

Why Do Nigerian Employers Avoid Advertising Some Jobs?

Most people assume employers don’t post jobs because they are careless. But HR managers have clear reasons:

1. Referrals Save Time

Hiring through someone they trust reduces screening and interview stress.

2. They Want “Known” Candidates

Companies prefer someone who already has a reputation, even if it’s informal.

3. Budget Constraints

Some companies avoid paying for job ads or recruitment services.

4. Sensitive Roles

Some positions (finance, admin, internal audit) require someone trustworthy.

5. Speed

Referrals usually get hired in days, not weeks.

Where the Hidden Job Market Exists in Nigeria

These are the real “underground” places where jobs circulate:

1. WhatsApp & Telegram Groups

Professional groups for HR, tech, NGOs, banking, and health share many unadvertised roles.

2. Alumni Networks

Secondary school, university, NYSC batch, and professional associations.

3. Internal Company Recommendations

Managers often ask staff to recommend someone before they post a vacancy.

4. LinkedIn DMs & Personal Posts

Some recruiters just post on their page or message people directly.

5. Physical Communities & Local Networks

Churches, mosques, clubs, volunteer organizations, and community events.

6. Recruitment Shortlists from Past Applications

Sometimes HR uses old CVs and never re-posts the job.

How Job Seekers Can Tap Into the Hidden Job Market

Here are practical steps:

1. Build Relationships, Not Just Connections

Networking isn’t about having 2,000 contacts.
It’s about:

• engaging

• commenting meaningfully

• offering help

• staying visible

A simple “Hello ma, I hope you’re doing well” message every few months keeps you remembered positively.

2. Join High-Value WhatsApp and Telegram Job Groups

But choose quality, not random broadcast groups.

Look for communities managed by:

• HR professionals

• industry experts

• internship trainers

• recruitment agencies

These groups often share internal openings.

3. Strengthen Your LinkedIn Presence

You don’t need to sound like a motivational speaker.
Just:

• Update your profile

• Write a short bio

• Add your skills

• Post your work samples

• Comment on industry discussions

LinkedIn visibility makes recruiters contact you privately for roles that never get advertised.

4. Tell People What You’re Looking For

Most Nigerians don’t share their job interests clearly.

Instead of saying:
“I need a job.”

Say:
“I’m actively seeking an entry-level admin role in Lagos or remote. I have experience with Excel, customer service, and document management.”

Specific requests make it easier for people to refer you.

5. Volunteer or Intern

Many full-time roles start from:

• volunteer work

• short contracts

• part-time projects

These opportunities introduce you to the networks where hidden jobs circulate.

6. Build a Simple Online Portfolio (Even If You Aren’t in Tech)

A portfolio shows competence instantly.

Examples:

• Admin roles: sample reports, letters, Excel sheets

• Customer service: call scripts, response templates

• Sales: proposals, marketing plans

• NGO/development: field reports, community outreach plans

A portfolio increases your chances of being recommended.

7. Follow HR Managers & Recruiters

Most HRs share vacancies on their personal pages first, before posting publicly.

Follow those in your industry and engage with their posts professionally.

8. Maintain Good Relationships With Former Colleagues

Many internal recommendations come from:

• ex-teammates

• former supervisors

• old clients

• internship mentors

You only need one person inside a company to get an opportunity others will never hear about.

The hidden job market is real — and powerful. Many Nigerians lose opportunities simply because they rely only on public job sites.

To increase your chances:

• Grow your network

• Be visible professionally

• Join relevant groups

• Improve your credibility

• Build genuine relationships

JobsNaija.ng will continue posting open jobs, but the smart job seeker also taps into networks, referrals, and hidden opportunities.