How to Apply for a Job on the Internet

Traditional advertising channels, like newspapers, have been losing market share to Internet-based ad portals for years. As the paper-based help-wanted ads dwindle, employers are increasingly relying on job-search sites such as Monster.com and CareerBuilder.com to search for talent. Job seekers must now be prepared to maneuver through through these sites, which includes knowing how to create and upload a resume that will stand out in a sea of online applications.

Instructions

Applying for an Online Job

1. Determine which online job site might best match your skills and preferences. For example, if you want to limit your commute to work, a regional job site, such as HudsonValleyHelpWanted.com, is a good choice. If you want to target a specific industry, a site like JournalismJobs.com might work.

2. Prepare a resume that highlights your skills and experience and save it on your computer's hard drive or a disc. The file should be saved in a common format, such as a Word document or PDF file, which are compatible with most job sites and can be easily uploaded.

3. Register for a free "membership" with certain job sites. Doing so will allow you to maintain an online folder within that site that will contain your resume document. When you click to apply for a job on that site, your resume will upload automatically.

4. Search through available jobs. Once you find one you like, follow the initial prompt for sending in a resume. Typically this will start with an "apply now" button that you can click to begin the process.

5. Upload or cut and paste your resume into the appropriate section online. Once the resume and optional (though suggested) cover letter have been successfully uploaded, click the "submit now" button to send.

6. Check to make sure your resume was received. Your online account will show you which jobs you have applied for. Most job sites will also send receipt confirmation of to the main email address you used during registration.

Tips & Warnings

• Many potential employers require cover letters with all submissions. While these should always be focused on each unique job opening, save time by preparing a basic outline that can be tweaked as needed.

• Some online job applications forms may request personal information from the job seeker, such as a social security number. Providing this type of data online is risky, as it can lead to identity theft. It's best to avoid applying for these jobs.

References

• Career Builder
• Journalism Jobs
• Regional Job Boards

Resources

• Monster.com