Online Jobs
Before the advent of online jobs, when looking for a new job it was the normal practice to buy newspapers and browse through the job ads
, write a letter of application and enclose your curriculum vitae. Either that or telephone the companies you thought might have vacancies that would suit your skills and experience.
Times have changed and the Internet has opened up new possibilities both for employers and employees. It is now possible to attract relevant and quality candidates from a wider geographical area and it has made opportunities visible to job applicants not merely in their current area but other counties or states and even in other countries. Online job application is a new thing to some people but it is one of those “when you have done it once” things.
Access to Online Job Search
If you have a computer with Internet access, a library service nearby or Internet Cafe searching for open jobs online has never been easier and has made the world a smaller place. Application forms can be completed online and can be an issue for some people only because of the fear of what might be asked, is there a hidden agenda and what happens if a mistake is made. Applicants should try to overcome their fears as potential employers are looking to hire the best prospect for the job and for the most part prefer to make the process as easy and inviting as possible.
The process usually entails opening up an account and filling in simple information such as name, address and contact number. Sometimes you will be required to list your previous employers and may be asked to write a small piece explaining why you think you are a good fit for the job. Again this is a task that many find difficult to do but if you really want the job this is something that you should give some time and thought to, consider it as creating a good first impression.
Having completed the job online form you will be asked to attach your resume. Producing a good CV has to be the subject of another article, it goes without saying it must be a true account of your employment history and be clear and precise.
Applying online can be to job sites or a company’s own website.
Company Website
Your completed application and resume will be reviewed by the HR Department and if appropriate passed to the line manager for appraisal. Hopefully this will be followed by an invitation to attend an interview but be prepared for a telephone screening interview before a request to attend.
Job Sites
When submitting your CV to job sites it is imperative that you clearly itemise your skills. Remember that these sites receive many curriculum vitae and usually rely on their computers to search and extract possible candidate matches to open jobs. Even though you have applied for a specific job you may not be suitable for that position but may throw up a possible match to other open positions.
It is likely that you will be asked to indicate your preferred industry, location and willingness to relocate. Think carefully about the answer and also what salary band you are seeking.
Is Online Job Hunting Only Available To Executive Professions?
One question we get asked is whether online job applications are just for senior professions or even just office workers. The answer is no, online job hunting caters for all whether that is office workers, shop floor workers full time, part time or on a per project basis, otherwise known as contract.
Has the Internet made it Easier to Get a Job?
There is little doubt that the internet has made it easier for companies to make people aware that there are vacancies available. What it has also achieved is making it more convenient for applicants to search for and to apply online instead of reading numerous newspapers and trade journals and browsing classified job adverts.
For employers and job agencies receiving resumes by email has made life easier in that they can be electronically filed without having to scan paper copies and correcting scanning errors.
The job market goes through periods of feast and famine just like other markets and there is a lot of competition for jobs but jobs are out there. Job hunters should remember that the Internet may have opened up the world to their job search but it has also opened up the world to thousands of others. When responding to online job classifieds it is even more imperative to make sure your profile fits the job specification and that your curriculum vitae looks professional and that your covering letter / covering email is also well constructed.
Job applications online has become the norm and the Internet has made it easier to look for a job but searching is only one small part of online job search, most of the old rules still apply as mentioned above.
