Get hired … quietly.

If you’re looking to join a new team or take on a new role in your organisation then you need to get “quiet hired”.

Many organisations are now filling talent gaps or acquiring new skills without formally hiring new employees. Instead, they shift internal employees to different roles or bring on temporary contractors or freelancers which allows them to adapt quickly to changing needs without going through the traditional, often time-consuming, recruitment process. But how do you get “quiet hired,”?

1. Show Initiative and Flexibility - Employers often shift current employees to new roles when they need to fill gaps so make sure managers know you're open to new challenges and are willing to take on responsibilities outside your regular scope of work. If you notice an area that needs help and aligns with your skills, offer to step in. This demonstrates initiative and makes you a prime candidate for internal mobility.

2. Upskill and Stay Relevant - Employers are more likely to move someone internally if they have the necessary skills so if your company has shifting priorities, upskill in those areas. Monitor industry trends and ensure you have the knowledge or qualifications that are becoming important in your field.

3. Network Within the Organisation - Stay connected with colleagues across departments. If decision-makers are aware of your capabilities, they're more likely to consider you when gaps emerge. Participate in cross-functional projects or meetings where you can showcase your talents and willingness to take on additional work.

4. Seek Opportunities for Temporary Roles - Companies may assign you to a different team for a specific project, even if it’s temporary. These "quiet hires" help the company meet immediate needs while allowing you to demonstrate your value in a different capacity. If your company is working with contractors or consultants, they may offer you a temporary or part-time assignment to take on some of that work.

5. Leverage Contracting/Freelancing - Companies often hire freelancers or contractors for short-term projects instead of full-time hires. Building a reputation as a reliable contractor for project-based roles can make you a quiet hire. If you’re freelancing, you can offer specific services to a company that meets their needs without requiring them to onboard you as a full-time employee.

6. Embrace Leadership Roles - If your company needs to fill leadership gaps temporarily, step up. This could lead to more permanent responsibilities or promotions later. Companies may not promote you formally right away, but if you're taking charge of projects, you could be “quiet-hired” into a more senior role over time.

In short, getting "quiet hired" means mobilising your talent to address the needs of the organisation but in a changing business world being adaptable will make you more valuable to the organisation and provide opportunities to develop new skills and to grow and progress.

You can contact us to find out how we can help you improve through our training or coaching programmes via messaging me on here, emailing me at russell@qedod.com or looking on our site at qedod.com