A number of employers list job vacancies through online sources such as specialized job websites, the company's Web presence and through industry association websites. However, these tools are not the only way to land the perfect position. Before you start your online job search, you need to know a few things to make your search more successful.
1. Digest These Statistics
Companies fill just 15 percent of positions through online job boards. Up to 70 percent of job seekers find their positions through networking, and businesses fill the rest of the positions through internal promotions. Take a balanced approach by researching the job market through online postings, but spend a greater portion of your time networking through social media.
2. Expand Your Horizons
Consider expanding your horizons by looking into non-traditional types of employment. You may find a really great company that shares the same values with you, but that employer may have locations far away from your home – and moving is not an option. Check into the possibility of telecommuting. Thanks to cloud computing and software applications, many businesses have flexible work options that may let you work from home instead of relocating.
3. Beat the Bots
Many large firms use applicant tracking software to weed through potential candidates, especially if they go through hundreds of resumes. Optimize your vital document to include the right keywords from the job description, the proper formatting techniques and accurate information. Having an optimized resume helps improve your rank and score in a pool of candidates.
4. Network
Networking is still a vital tool to landing a promotion or getting a new job. However, that does not mean attending special networking events and job fairs. Contemporary networking involves making connections through social media websites. Create professional relationships through specialty websites that let career-minded individuals reach out to colleagues with the same interests, degrees, certifications, backgrounds and industries. These networks also show where someone works, which lets you foster a connection with someone at a specific firm if you so choose.
5. Polish Your Personal Brand
Social media websites also let you create a personal brand. Post about various articles and newsworthy nuggets regarding issues important to your professional life. Share opinions about the latest white papers, industry standards, press releases, surveys and statistics. Blogging websites let you create a sphere of influence with others in your industry, so you get your name out there.
6. Get Rid of Your Negative Image
Your personal brand also includes previous posts made to your social media accounts. Examine these posts closely to see if any need to be removed. Get rid of any awkward pictures, racy photos or personal posts not meant for employers. Consider altering privacy settings on your social media accounts to make sure a prospective manager sees only the stuff you want him to view. Maintaining a positive, professional attitude in your social media goes a long way to reassuring an employer that you're the right person for the job.
7. Organize Your Job Search
Do not duplicate any efforts or waste time once you find a job posting. Create files on your computer that keep track of everything you do, including the job searches you perform, the applications you fill out and the contacts you make through social media. Note the time when you submitted your applications and resumes, so you know when to call or email to follow up. Write down when you contacted people within your network so you recognize that you're overdue for another quick personal message.
8. Customize Everything
Prepare to customize your application, cover letter and resume to each company that interests you. This shows your interest, your willingness to research the company and your technical skills. Include keywords from the job description in your vital documents.
9. Vary Your Searches
Don't rely on just one way to find a job. Vary your methods every day. If you spend one hour perusing online job boards, consider reading industry association websites for 30 minutes. Spend some time nurturing your network every single day.
10. Set Aside Time
Create a set schedule to get all of this done. If you have a job, plan to search during your off hours. If you are unemployed, set aside time at home so you concentrate on finding work.
An online job search entails more than just filling out online applications. Find a routine that works for you as you dive head-first into job boards, making new connections and revitalizing your personal brand.
Photo Courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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