What is a characteristic of the informal job market?

The informal job market is often characterized by opportunities that are not publicly advertised or listed on traditional platforms like job boards. Referrals circulating by word of mouth signify a more personal and direct method of connecting employers with potential candidates. This informal approach relies heavily on personal networks and relationships rather than formal recruitment processes.

In contrast, other options represent more formal aspects of job searching. Published job openings on job boards are typically part of the formal job market, where positions are openly advertised. Standardized application processes are characteristic of structured hiring practices, which are also part of the formal job scene. Networking events and job fairs, while they can facilitate connections informally, are still organized instances of job searching that might not capture the essence of the informal job market as effectively as direct referrals do. Thus, referrals by word of mouth highlight the personal and less structured nature of the informal job market.