The Best Pharma Jobs Aren't Posted But Here's How to Find Them

Most job seekers look in the same place, online postings. But that’s not where most roles get filled.

According to LinkedIn, up to 85% of jobs are filled through networking, not by clicking "apply" on a posting. Other research, including from Jobvite and The Wall Street Journal, suggests that 70–80% of job openings are never advertised at all.

So where are those jobs hiding?

They're in what’s called the hidden job market, opportunities that are filled through internal promotions, referrals, or informal conversations before they’re ever made public.

In pharma and life sciences, where hiring often depends on trust, regulatory experience, and cultural fit, this hidden market is especially active.

Here’s what that looks like in practice:

Unlisted Openings Many roles are filled before they’re ever made public. Companies may promote internally or rely on trusted referrals.

Referral-Driven Decisions Managers often prefer candidates recommended by employees. A strong referral can bypass traditional application routes entirely.

Relationship-First Hiring Often, conversations and informal introductions lead to interviews, even when no official job posting exists.

The good news? This job market is absolutely accessible, if you know how to tap into it.

Building Visibility and Trust

Establish a Strong Digital Presence Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date, focused on value, and reflects where you want to go, not just where you’ve been.

Share What You Know Post insights, comment thoughtfully, and join relevant conversations. The more visible your expertise, the more likely it is to attract attention.

Keep Your Message Clear Consistency across your résumé, online profiles, and outreach builds credibility. Make it easy for people to understand who you are and how you help.

Networking That Actually Works

Show Up Where the Industry Is Conferences, webinars, and small-group meetups offer opportunities to meet people organically, and build trust faster.

Have Meaningful Conversations Request short calls to learn about someone’s work and experience. These chats can lead to insights, introductions, or even informal referrals.

Be Active, Not Aggressive Thoughtful engagement, like reacting to posts or congratulating a peer on a new role, keeps you top of mind in a natural way.

Follow Up with Intention Don’t let new contacts go cold. Periodic check-ins, article shares, or value-added comments help maintain momentum.

Reaching Out Strategically

Customize Every Message Avoid generic intros. Show you’ve done your homework by referencing the company’s recent work or team goals.

Lead with Value Rather than asking for a job, highlight how your experience aligns with what the organization needs right now.

Follow Up Gracefully Persistence doesn’t have to be pushy. A brief, well-timed follow-up can turn a cold message into a warm opportunity.

Take Action This Week

1. Choose five pharma companies you're excited about
2. Connect with three professionals inside those organizations (make sure to send them a tailored, value-driven message)
3. Comment on two industry posts this week to stay visible
4. Schedule one informational call to learn, not pitch

The hidden job market isn’t about who you know, it’s about who knows you and what you bring to the table.

Follow me for more insights on job searching and career transitions in pharma. Ready to take the next step? Click the link to schedule a strategic clarity call with me, and let’s create your personalized career action plan together. https://calendly.com/reginalescura/new-meeting