Frustrated by the limited job listings in your local newspaper’s classifieds? In today’s digital age, your computer is the most powerful tool in your job search arsenal, offering access to an expansive network of opportunities with just a few clicks.
Human resources professionals widely acknowledge the PC’s pivotal role in modern job hunting. This encompasses leveraging email, exploring online resources, and utilizing computer software to craft compelling resumes and cover letters.
The Internet has become a central hub connecting employers and job seekers. Employers can efficiently post openings, reaching a vast pool of potential candidates. Simultaneously, job seekers can explore diverse opportunities across various sectors, including companies, government agencies, and non-profits, submitting applications and resumes electronically.
A significant advantage of online job searching is the elimination of geographical constraints. Your search can extend beyond your immediate community to encompass cities, states, or even international locations.
Online communication offers a less intrusive approach. Employed individuals can explore job sites during evenings and weekends without disrupting their current positions. Unemployed individuals can establish a robust online presence, surpassing the reach of traditional methods.
Even when focusing on local employment, the internet provides abundant information. Many newspapers and local employment offices have online versions. Directly visiting the websites of potential local employers is also a great strategy. These sites often have “Jobs” or “Position Openings” sections, listing current vacancies, qualifications, deadlines, and other relevant details.
State Farm Insurance’s website (www.statefarm.com) serves as a prime example. Under “About State Farm,” the “Careers” section provides extensive information on job openings, recruiting events, benefits, and resume preparation. They list jobs on HotJobs.com, and also have an “opportunities” page that describes the various jobs for which applicants might be sought, including position descriptions and a geographical breakdown of jobs available around North America as well as those located at the company’s headquarters in Bloomington, Illinois.
While not all companies have such comprehensive websites, most large organizations provide updated job information online. This practice is now common even among smaller businesses and non-profits.
Beyond direct job postings, the internet facilitates research on potential employers. Understanding an organization’s background is crucial for tailoring cover letters and resumes. Company websites often contain valuable information such as news releases, annual reports, executive bios, and contact details.
Third-party business information services like Hoover’s (www.hoovers.com) offer corporate profiles. Salary information can be found on sites like People Ticker (www.peopleticker.com), professional associations’ websites, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov).
Comprehensive career sites like Monster.com (www.monster.com) connect users to numerous job openings. After creating a free account, you can receive email alerts about matching opportunities, search online, and create resumes.
The site also offers company research tools, networking opportunities, and free advice on resumes, interviews, and salary negotiation. Fee-based services are available for further career development.
Career Journal (www.careerjournal.com), from the Wall Street Journal, provides daily updates and archived articles on career-related news and trends. It features a searchable database of job postings from top companies in management, sales, marketing, finance, and technology. While basic access is free, WSJ.com subscribers gain access to additional resources, including detailed company briefing books and a confidential resume database with online resume creation tools.
Employers Online (www.employersonline.com) caters to employers, recruiters, and job seekers, focusing on sales/marketing, IT, medical, engineering, and management roles. Job seekers can submit resumes for employer viewing. Free services include access to job postings and resume/interview tips. Resume posting requires free registration.
Other helpful sites include HotJobs (www.yahoo.hotjobs.com), CareerBuilder.com (www.careerbuilder.com), America’s Job Bank (www.jobsearch.org), and Career.com (www.career.com). Some sites, such as Quintessential Careers (www.quintcareers.com), serve as portals to other job search resources. AllJobSearch (www.alljobsearch.com) is a comprehensive job search engine where you can enter keywords, specify geographic preferences, job type, posting dates, and job category to find matching job openings.
Job site services vary; some are free, while others are fee-based, offering additional services such as job counseling and resume development.
One strategy is to broadcast your resume to multiple sources using services like www.blastmyresume.com, instantly emailing your resume to recruiters and employers. While its effectiveness is debated, it expands your resume’s reach beyond traditional mail.
Beyond job searching, your computer is invaluable for creating resumes, cover letters, and portfolios.
A resume secures an interview, your opportunity to impress. Utilize word processing software to create professional resumes and cover letters. Revise as needed, print copies, or transmit electronically. Tailor versions to specific employers or highlight different qualifications.
Alternatively, use software like WinWay Resume Deluxe (www.winway.com), which includes a resume writing program, sample resumes, key phrases, and a letter-writing program.
Online resume-building services like TotalResume.com (www.totalresume.com) offer templates for creating resumes. Complete forms with your personal and professional information, using action words and spellchecking. Download the completed resume as a Word document, email it, and maintain it online.
Embrace your computer as a powerful job search tool. Effective utilization will yield satisfying results.