If you're relying solely on job boards to find your next chiropractic position, you're only seeing part of the picture.
It’s estimated that over 60% of chiropractic job openings are never publicly advertised. These positions are filled through referrals, networking, and direct outreach, what’s known as the “hidden job market.”
So how do you access it? In this post, we’ll break down how to uncover unlisted opportunities, recognize subtle hiring signals, and position yourself as the ideal candidate, before a clinic even posts a job.
What Is the Hidden Job Market?
The hidden job market refers to job opportunities that aren't published online. This includes:
- Positions filled through internal referrals
- Clinics quietly looking for help but not actively advertising
- Future roles not yet created but open to the right person
In a profession like chiropractic, where many practices are small and privately owned, hiring often happens informally and on short notice. Clinic owners may not post a listing at all if someone promising reaches out at the right time.
How to Tap Into the Hidden Chiropractic Job Market
1. In-Person Networking
One of the most effective ways to find unlisted chiropractic roles is by showing up where other chiropractors gather.
Try these venues:
- Seminars and continuing education events
- State association meetings
- Technique-specific workshops or bootcamps
- Local chiropractic school meet-ups
In-person interaction builds trust quickly. Even a short conversation can turn into a referral, mentorship, or interview invitation down the line.
2. Social Media Engagement
You don’t need a large following to use social media for networking, you just need to be intentional.
Tips for finding opportunities:
- Follow clinics you admire on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn
- Leave thoughtful comments on their posts
- Send a short DM to introduce yourself or ask a question
- React to Stories and repost relevant clinic content
- Join Facebook groups for chiropractic jobs, students, or techniques
This kind of low-key engagement keeps you on their radar, and when they need someone, they’re more likely to reach out to you directly.
3. Cold Outreach to Clinics
One of the most underrated strategies is to contact clinics directly, even if they haven’t posted a job.
How to do it right:
- Keep your email short, polite, and personalized
- Mention why you admire their clinic or approach
- Offer to shadow, observe, or meet for coffee
- Include a PDF resume and your availability
Even if they’re not hiring right now, you’ll stand out simply for being proactive. Many owners keep a “future hires” folder, and when the need arises, they pull from that list first.
How to Spot a Clinic That Might Be Hiring Soon
Some clinics may not advertise roles but show signs they’re preparing to expand or are open to hiring.
Watch for these clues:
- Rapid social media growth
- A clinic that's posting more frequently, getting engagement, or offering promotions may be preparing for higher volume.
- New location opening
- If you see a “coming soon” announcement or renovation photos, they’ll likely need more hands on deck.
- Owner expressing burnout or seeking balance
- Posts or comments like “Finally taking a vacation!” or “Managing a full schedule this week” could mean the owner is open to part-time or relief help.
- Increased online advertising
- Clinics ramping up their patient marketing may also need additional providers to handle the demand.
What to Say When You Reach Out
You don’t need a perfect pitch, just a professional, respectful message.
Example cold email:
Subject: Interest in Shadowing or Future Opportunities
Hi Dr. [Name],
My name is [Your Name], and I'm a recent chiropractic graduate currently exploring opportunities in [City/Region]. I've been following your clinic and really admire your focus on [specific value, technique, or patient base].
I’d love the opportunity to connect, learn more about your clinic, and potentially explore how I might support your team — now or in the future.
I’ve attached my resume and would be happy to stop by or chat at your convenience.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Email] | [Phone Number]
Follow Up and Stay Consistent
Don’t assume silence means rejection. Clinic owners are often busy and overwhelmed and your timing may simply not align with their needs at that moment.
Follow up every 2–3 weeks with a brief message:
- Ask how things are going
- Offer help with coverage or future projects
- Mention a recent post or seminar they led
Many chiropractors don’t get hired because they weren’t qualified, they just didn’t follow up when the timing was right.
Final Thoughts
If you're only applying to publicly listed chiropractic jobs, you're missing out on the majority of real opportunities.
The best roles often go to chiropractors who show up early, stay connected, and take initiative.
Tap into the hidden job market by:
- Networking in person
- Engaging on social media
- Reaching out directly to clinics you admire
In a relationship-driven profession like chiropractic, being proactive and professional can set you apart and lead to opportunities no one else even knows about.