The internet is a fantastic tool when it comes to finding a new job. But with so many online recruitment sites and job boards to search through, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed without a clue of where to begin. An effective job search begins with efficient time management and organisation. Here are some great tips for maximising your time online when searching for jobs.
1. Track Your Job Search
Create your own tracking system for job searches and applications. A job search spreadsheet may seem like unnecessary admin for those who are pressed for time, but a little organisation goes a long way. A spreadsheet helps you keep on top of correspondence and progress, so you can quickly blackmark dead ends and rejections. Additionally, it also helps you build a good set of contacts - because you never know when you might need them in the future.
2. Bookmark Local Job Sites
Local job sites are a great place to start when looking for jobs near you. As well as the global names (such as Indeed and Monster), try honing in on the regional websites as some job roles may only appear in local listings. So websites such as Metrochicagojobs.com and our Built In Chicago jobs board are resources worth tapping into.
3. Know Your Industry
As well as bookmarking local and global recruitment websites and job boards, it’s important to remember that every industry will have its own niche recruitment sites. For example, the Hospitality Industry will have specific websites for catering jobs, restaurant jobs, bar jobs or hotel jobs - so it’s all about knowing where to look.
This Dream Hospitality Job Search System shows the importance of filtering to find the right websites to assist in your unique job search. The same concept applies for all other industries out there, from Sales and Marketing to Retail, Nursing and Healthcare to Banking and Finance.
4. Get CV Advice
Perfect your resume for the best chances of securing an interview. If you have a bad CV then every hour you spend with online searches and applications is a complete waste of your time. Getting your resume right is the first (and most crucial) step in finding a new job.
Some recruitment websites provide basic guidance for candidates looking to improve their resumes (such as Monster). But if you’re looking for advanced help with building your curriculum vitae, a professional CV writing service might be the next step.
5. Be Realistic with Searches
Although rejection is normal with every job search, a high number of rejections or a large amount of negative feedback could indicate that you are simply not right for the jobs that you are applying for. It’s important to be realistic with the opportunities that you decide to pursue. As a general rule, it’s only worth applying for a position found through a job board if your resume matches around 80-85% of the prerequisites.
Work to this rule of thumb and you can really make your job search strategy more efficient and effective.
