Online job hunting has transformed the way we look for jobs, making our searches quicker, easier and often a lot wider. If you want to avoid wading through hundreds of vacancies it’s important to make your search as smart and targeted as possible.
1. Check the deadline
Most sites are good at removing vacancies that have passed. But it’s always a good idea to double check the deadline. Don’t waste time writing an application that might not be considered. If you’re not sure, email the employer or pick up the phone!
1. Check the deadline
Most sites are good at removing vacancies that have passed. But it’s always a good idea to double check the deadline. Don’t waste time writing an application that might not be considered. If you’re not sure, email the employer or pick up the phone!
2. Read the terms and conditions
Many legitimate recruitment sites keep your CV on a database, which employers can then search through when they have a vacancy. But, as with everything you do online, be sure that a site is secure and reputable before posting your personal details. Some sites have been known to publish CVs to the web in an effort to attract employers. Read the terms and conditions or the ‘about’ section of the site before you hit ‘subscribe’.
3. Think laterally
Opportunities can spring up in the least expected places. If you’re not finding the right vacancy for you, try browsing related categories and searching by alternative job titles or widen the geographical area of your search.
4. Beware of false opportunities
If a job sounds too good to be true, it usually is! It's not unknown for some recruitment sites to overplay the vacancies they have on offer, just to try and get people to sign up with them. Look behind the pound signs before handing over your info or cash!
5. Put yourself out there
Business networking sites such as LinkedIn and Spoke are becoming very popular among jobseekers who want to promote their skills. These sites allow you to develop relationships that can lead to finding unadvertised vacancies. A little bit of self-promotion can go a long way! Find out how to tap into the hidden jobs market in our beginner's guide to networking.
6. Don’t be a spammer!
Online applications are quick and easy. You can feasibly find five vacancies and apply for them all on the same day. But don't fire off your CV to every company you come across. Employers look for applications that link your skills and abilities to the requirements of the job. Think quality not quantity!
7. Take things offline
Online applications and registration forms differ from one site to the next. Always draft your applications offline – this way you can spell check your text. Saving an offline copy also means you're less at risk from the internet going down or your details not saving correctly.
8. Don’t become invisible
Applying online can sometimes feel like you’re sending your info into a black hole. Don't be afraid to call or send an email asking if a recruiter has received your CV or application form.
9. Check your alerts
If the alerts you sign up to don’t deliver the vacancies you want, unsubscribe! Unwanted job alerts can clog up your inbox and you risk overlooking any that could be useful. If you’ve signed up to alerts and they’re not coming through, check your junk mail folder as your mail provider might be treating them as spam. Also remember that some sites don’t let you sign up using a freemail address like Yahoo! or Hotmail.
10. Go retro!
Finally, don't get caught in the online trap. Traditional methods of job seeking, such as newspapers, trade journals and networking can be just as effective. The wider your job search, the more chance you'll have of finding your ideal job!
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