5.0 Online Job Search
In the previous modules, we discussed how to use the Net
to help you research the labour market. The next few modules will cover
how to find actual job postings online.
Why should
you use the Net to look for a job?
You need to compete with other job seekers.
Traditional job search methods are a good start but, used alone, are
limiting in today's job market. Many smart job seekers have added the
Internet to their job search tool kit.
Companies and organizations are recruiting on
their home pages. You need to know how to properly submit your resumé
and application online to apply for these jobs. There are at least three
ways to develop and submit an "electronic resumé." You need
to know what to do when.
Online job banks and job-matching services are
important sources of job leads. But randomly
posting your resumé to these resources can be a waste of time. You need
to know which ones will meet your needs and how to post an
"electronic resumé" appropriately.
When should you use the Net to look for
a job?
If you're looking for work in larger companies
located in larger communities. Most large
corporations and organizations (e.g. government, colleges and
universities) post jobs on their World Wide Web sites. However, many
small businesses, especially those in smaller communities, do not
use the Internet for posting jobs.
So if you're looking for work with a small business
in a small town, the Internet probably won’t be your most important
work search tool.
If you're looking for a job at a professional
level. Some job banks tend to list more
professional jobs. With the introduction of the federal government's
Electronic Labour Exchange, the trend is toward including a broader
range of jobs.
If you work in the high technology industry.
It’s pretty much expected that workers in the computer industry will
look for and apply for jobs on the Net.
If you're doing a "long distance" job
search. The Net is a great tool to help
people who want to move to a new community to research job opportunities
from a distance.
What Online Job Search will cover
Online job search is a huge topic and we simply can’t
cover everything you need to know in this short tutorial. But there are
many online resources you can use to teach yourself how to use the
Internet effectively to find jobs online. We’ll point you to the best
Canadian and American resources around.
The Internet is only one resource for
your job search
Using the Internet isn’t a substitute for any of the
other proven job search techniques. But you can add it to your tool kit
of searching strategies.
Continue to use all the contacts, information
resources and services available. Pick up the telephone and call people,
arrange information interviews, pay attention to the local media and use
the reference books in your local library.
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