A short guide to finding jobs on the internet
Whether you are a fresh graduate or someone looking for a change, the internet forms a significant part of your job search. Some of you may have done this before. However, there’s no denying that the internet isn’t the same place it used to be two years ago. This guide will give you a brief idea of how to go about searching for jobs online.
The first place, to begin with, is to keep your search focussed. Use keywords to search for the job as per your location preference and skillset. This way, you will find jobs that are more relevant to you.
You can also use an advanced search, which returns specific results. Google has also joined the mix, and you can easily find jobs using a simple - “jobs near me.” If you are looking for something specific, there are also specialty sites like Dice, Idealist and Flexjobs.
Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer a plethora of courses in various fields. For instance, courses in digital marketing can equip you with valuable skills highly sought after in today's job market. Similarly, delving into e-commerce or content creation can open up new avenues for employment opportunities. By investing time in continuous learning, you not only enhance your skill set but also demonstrate to potential employers your commitment to self-improvement and adaptability.
You can also use an advanced search, which returns specific results. Google has also joined the mix, and you can easily find jobs using a simple - “jobs near me.” If you are looking for something specific, there are also specialty sites like Dice, Idealist and Flexjobs.
Your resume is the first bridge to your dream job, so make sure you build a strong one. Some of you are very good at making a beautiful resume, but you also need to understand that the same one can’t be used for every job you apply for.
The internet has made job search more comfortable in that the entire job description, work culture of the company and all such important details are made available online. Use these to your advantage, and personalize your resume for every job.
Match the skillset the employer is looking for with your own and insert those keywords in your resume. On average, 250 people apply for a single position; adding the required keywords is what takes your resume to the next level where your hiring manager will see it.
No matter the source you use for applying for a job, the power of Linkedin cannot be underestimated. The recruiter will undoubtedly look you up on Linkedin, and hence you need to make sure you look your best here. For starters, you need to have a profile photo - a professional one.
Recommendations always come in handy, so make sure you ask your bosses and peers for one. Update your profile saying you are open to new opportunities, titles you are looking for, skills, and profile summary.
If you have a contact that works in the company you are interested in, connect with them and understand the work environment, day to day responsibilities, possible interview questions and make yourself interview ready.
Glassdoor is another place to research your target company and even understand the pay structure. Glassdoor also has an app that pairs you with relevant job listings and helps you prep for the interview, helping you ramp up your job search.
Craigslist is also a top-rated job site in the US. However, it is a free classified service; hence, there may be some fake jobs. If a particular company asks for a training fee or your social security number, you need to look in the other direction.
Several paid services are also available which will help you prepare for your interview, organize job content, create a good looking resume and all that you need to find a job online. However, it would help if you always evaluated the value it will add and make sure your search is safe. And when you finally get your chance, don’t forget to follow up and accept or decline the offer.
