Online Search Strategies: Making the Internet Work for You
Managing Online Resources
The Electronic Recruiting Index estimates that there were over 28 million Internet job postings and 2500 websites offering job postings in 1998. You can easily get lost on the Internet and get distracted by the multitude of websites. It is important to be organized and focused on your job search. Read evaluating online resources in the next section below to be sure the websites you are using are effective.
Make sure not to apply to multiple jobs at same company or mass-mail your resume. Instead, you should only apply for positions that match your background and interests, you will perceived as a serious candidate and will be more likely to be considered for the job.
You have to find out which resources will be most helpful given your career situation, industry preferences, and geographic focus. Consider which resources will best fit your job search needs.
Evaluating Online Resources
Questions to Consider in Evaluating Online Resources:
- What type of information am I finding here? Is it formal or informal discussion, business listings, academics or non profits, is it job listings or other information?
- Are job listings dated and how long is information kept here? When are new jobs added, is it updated daily, weekly, or monthly?
- Do I know anyone who has used this service? How did it work for them, did they like what they found, did they feel it was helpful?
- Is there a fee for the service and is it worth the cost? Can I find other sites that offer an equal service at no cost, what will my money get me? Do not give out information like social security number because there are too many good resources that don't require personal information to consider listing confidential information on the web.
- Who runs this service? What is the background- recruiter or industry specialist? Do they respond to my requests for information or have a phone number? Judge them using your own criteria.
- How long has the site existed? You should want some stability- at least 6 months, some have been around 5 years.
- Can anyone browse the resume postings or are they password protected? Know the risks involved. Your boss may see your resume or someone can steal your identity from your resume. Use sites that make recruiters use passwords to see resumes or those that limit personal information.
Final Note:
The internet should not be the only resource you use on your job search. Consider using all contacts, information resources and services available to you for most effective and efficient job search. Take advantage of MIT Careers Office to learn about additional resources.
Last updated on Monday, September 18, 06 at 01:41:24 PM EDT.
