How to Maximize Your Employment Search Online

The uncertainty of today’s economy has led many job seekers to the Internet for their online job search. While some job seekers may look for part-time work to supplement their income, others may need to replace a lost job. Despite the reason for your online search, unemployment is the highest it has been in 14 years, which means that the competition is tough and may get even tougher. Here are some tips to give you an edge over your competition.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Use appropriate keywords to maximize your job search online. Most people do not realize that companies often use filtering software. The software scans the resume for keywords related to the specific position. For better results, in the objective section, include the title for the desired position.

2. Use sites like SpamCheck.com to make sure your resume does not qualify as spam, as flagged resumes normally end up in the trash.

3. Format your resume appropriately for online use. If you email your resume or apply online, use a plain text format. Avoid any font formatting, bullets or special characters. Use all caps to start each new section, and replace bullets with asterisks. Have your resume ready so you can apply online as soon as you find an available position. Some online sites use portions of your plain-text resume to fill out specific application fields.

4. Apply at job boards specializing in your line of work. For example, if you are looking for a tech position, perform your online job search at Dice.com. Executives may take advantage of TheLadders.com. Specialized job boards can help you maximize your online job search since the competition is less.

5. Join online networking sites such as LinkedIn and Ecademy. You will find that many professionals and businesses have a profile at such sites, and will give an opportunity to cultivate new connections.

6. Make sure your resume is error-free before you start your search online. Have a friend proofread it to make sure everything is perfect.

Tips & Warnings

• You may also perform your online employment search at Careerbuilder.com and Monster.com; however, the competition is greater at these sites.
• Email your resume to a friend to ensure that it reads correctly before you submit it online.

Resources

• Dice.com
• TheLadders®
• Linkedin®
• Ecademy.com

[nanamusicgirl]

on 11/11/2009 This would help many people to find a job. Thanks. 5 stars.*****

[blondehound]

on 2/4/2009 thanks, 5*

[cadence]

on 1/28/2009 These are great job search tips!

[vintage]

on 1/28/2009 This is very useful information!