Find a Job Online?

Job searches can be frustrating, and at some point you may actually be asking yourself whether it’s possible to find a job online.

I know. Because I’ve been there. Screaming “I need a job now!” as I go through countless job search websites and fill out numerous job applications. (Including ones for jobs I knew I was way over-qualified for.)

But the truth is that, despite the sluggish economy, there are countless job networking opportunities available to you online. And they aren’t all just checking in with your job website profile.

Find a Job Online Tip No.1: Understanding How Job Search Websites Work

Job search websites come in many different sizes, shapes, and colors. There are the biggies like Monster and Career Builder. But there are also online message boards that can be a great resource for job tips, as well as a source for support. (It’s often best to focus on specific niche job sites: such as ones that cater to military personnel or geograhical locations.)

Another key point is that job search aggregators, such as indeed.com, can save you a bunch of time by collecting all job listings into one simple platform. (Singing up for email alerts can be a great way to

Be aware that these job websites have a business model that includes up-selling you on items such as education or resume assistance. These can be helpful, in the right circumstances, but be focused on what you’re looking for and your chances of finding the right job listing for you increase.

Find a Job Online Tip No.2: Find the Buzz

One key to finding a job online is to make sure you are searching for job listings in the right way. And this means using the terminology of specific positions–and most notably the terminology that recruiters and employers use–that you’d like to be considered for.

Creating an alert for the term “marketing” may produce a lot of results, but it probably won’t be targeted enough to be very useful. (Anybody who has had to go through hundreds of job listings in their email can attest to that.)

Instead add certain “skill” that you feel qualified for. Such as “social media” or “PPC” or “manufacturing” or “customer service” or any number of items that can help narrow down your search.

Another good tip is to do a simple google search for the phrase you’re searching for. Down at the bottom of the page you’ll see related search terms. Add these to your filtered job results and you might just find a position you wouldn’t otherwise.

Find a Job Online Tip No.3: Express Yourself

Still, the best way to find a job online is to post your resume on as many job search sites as you can.

It sounds obvious, but so many people don’t do this simple action. And you’d be shocked by how many recruiters cruise around these sites looking for new talent.

But it’s vital that you upload a recent resume. (Some people post stuff and then leave it up there two years.) I suggest job-seekers look at their resumes every 2 months, just to be sure they’re still accurate and can’t be improved in some way.

Notice I said…resumes. You should have numerous resumes for different areas. For instance, I might have experience in social media marketing, so I’d want a resume that emphasizes this.

Another resume may highlight my experience with copyediting. Look at your total job experience as the areas you’ve worked in and mastered–not just simply the 2 or 3 jobs you throw on your resume.

It will make your resume much easier to find, and boost your ability to find a job online.

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