Job Search: Using the Web to Launch Your Search

By Michele Blandino

You’ve decided it’s time to move on, and you’re sure the Internet will help you get to where you need to go. While this strategy will certainly help you when you plan your next vacation, it may not be the best way to conduct a job search.

New Frontiers

Without a doubt, the Internet has changed the way in which we do just about everything – including making a job change. Indeed, there are thousands of Web sites dedicated to helping you find the perfect job ranging from massive all-encompassing databases such as CareerBuilder to those that deal with a particular industry such as Dice, which focuses on opportunities available in technical areas such as information technology and engineering. Finally, there are regional databases such as those found on the Web sites of local newspapers and other community publications.

Only One Part of the Strategy

With so many online resources available, it is easy to assume that the Internet has become the primary tool that should be used in a job search. But, many experts believe that while the Internet is certainly a valuable resource, it is not the only one that should be used to conduct your search.

The reality is that most jobs are still found through old-fashioned networking and face-to-face contact. Certainly, the Internet can help you learn which companies are hiring as well as provide information regarding the skills and competencies those companies are looking for, but in order to gain an interview or serious consideration for an open position, a personal contact within the company is still your best bet.

Networking Strategies

Certainly networking – using personal contacts and associations as part of a job search strategy – isn’t always easy, particularly if you are conducting your job search in a different geographic area. The key is to let as many people as possible know about your job search and career interests. Obviously, some discretion may be necessary if you do not want your employer to know you are looking, but if this is not a concern – perhaps you are currently out of work or are facing layoff – then by all means, don’t hesitate to share this with others. Getting the word out to numerous people will increase the chance that you will eventually be introduced to someone within the company or area where you would like to work. It may also be helpful to join a professional organization within the particular industry which you are pursuing work or the geographic area in which you would like to live and then attend the meetings. These meetings will help you to gain valuable contacts which can help to move your search forward.

Patience

Finally, be patient. Job searches usually take time – sometimes several months. As long as you use the right combination of networking and online research, chances are, your search will be successful.