Online job search tips can be a lifesaver for any career minded person looking to get ahead. But if you aren’t careful, searching for jobs online can become a full-time job. So it is important to make sure you set aside time and focus on other tasks like networking, building your skillsets, or watching career development Ted Talks. One of the biggest mistakes you can make is applying to jobs without researching the company first. Having an in-depth understanding of the company’s culture and values is a huge bonus when it comes to getting the job, and it is usually something that cannot be discerned from reading the posting or looking at the company website. It can also save you a lot of headaches down the road, as it is easy to find yourself unhappy in a role you rushed into. If you do apply to a position and want to know more about the company, be sure to use Google and social media to learn more. Checking the company’s Twitter feed, going through their news articles, and even Googling their competitors can give you some insight into what it is like to work for a particular company before you actually apply. It is not uncommon for a potential employer to call an applicant and ask them to come in for a more in-depth interview, or even to make a job offer, just from the information they have found online. It is also important to remember that online applications often go through an ATS (applicant tracking system) program, which may be scanning your resume and cover letter for specific keywords. To improve your chances of passing through this software, it is recommended to add a custom-written cover letter to each application. This will help you stand out among the crowd of other applicants and ensure that your application gets read by someone in the hiring department. Another great online job search tip is to keep track of all the jobs you have applied to. This will help you avoid accidentally applying to a job again and it will help you remember when it is time to follow up with an employer. It is important to remember that the job market is competitive, and most employers receive hundreds of applications for each posted job. By taking the time to prepare yourself and apply only to a few jobs at a time, you can maximize your chances of success. If you are unsure what type of job you want to apply for, start with smaller, niche job boards that only post positions in your area of interest. This way, you will be able to focus on jobs that fit your skill level and experience level. This will reduce the amount of time you spend on your job search and allow you to be more efficient and productive. It is also important to stay motivated and positive throughout your job search. If you are feeling down, take a break and do something fun for yourself like go to a movie or out to lunch.
