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Using the Internet Effectively

The Internet can be a useful tool in your job search. You can use it to:

  • Send email to networking contacts.

  • Search for openings on job search sites and corporate web sites.

  • Submit resumés to online resumé banks

  • Submit applications to corporate web sites.

  • Email resumés to potential employers.

  • Post e-portfolios with digital samples of your work.

  • Research companies, industries, and agencies.

Online Networking

You can also use the Internet for networking through sites such as Facebook.com, MySpace.com, and LinkedIn.com. Although Facebook and MySpace are used primarily as social networking sites, LinkedIn is designed for professionals seeking to connect with one another specifically for career purposes. However, regardless of the site used, you should be aware that profiles on any web site can be located easily by potential employers. In fact, many employers are accessing sites and googling candidates' names as part of a routine background check. If there is anything about you on the web via a networking site or any web-based profile page, be aware that it could be seen by prospective employers. Ask:

  • What information do you have online? Is it something you'd want a potential employer to know or see?

  • What sites have you joined? Do you know that employers have easy access to such sites?

  • Do you think information about you online could deter a potential employer from hiring you?

Applying Online

To minimize the risk of infecting their computer systems with harmful viruses, many companies no longer accept emailed resumés. Instead, they now prefer—or even require—that applicants submit their information using the company’s own proprietary online application form. Even if you are allowed to upload your resumé from your computer to the employer’s database, you will need to check the information carefully to ensure that it is accurate. These automated programs will often translate your information incorrectly, and that could exclude you from being considered for the job. In addition, these automated forms are almost always scanned by computer before a human being ever sees them, so it’s important that they contain appropriate keywords and no mistakes. When completing an online application form, always:

  • Follow instructions carefully.

  • Complete all required fields.

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  • Proof your information carefully. Most online application forms allow you to edit the information if your resumé was not translated correctly.

  • Print each page of the form for your records.

  • Read disclosures and disclaimers so you know how your information will be used.

  • Click the submit button only when you’re satisfied that everything is okay.

Blogging

Do you blog? If so, be careful what you write. Many people today keep weblogs, or online journals, where they relay their opinions on everything from the weather to politics to religion and more. While blogging can be a way to display your writing skills, your opinions and views expressed — particularly if you use offensive language — can deter potential employers. As with networking sites, employers can simply google your name,. and your blogging activities can be revealed; using an alias or pseudonym won't necessarily protect you.
 

Netiquette

It pays to have good manners online. This means treating people with respect and courtesy, just as you would in a face-to-face setting. For example:

  • Respond to emails no later than the next day.

  • Address the person by name when sending an email, and end the message with your name; include additional contact information, such as your physical address and phone number.

  • Use good writing skills; check spelling and punctuation before sending email.

  • Share what you know with discussion groups so everyone benefits from the information. At the same time . . .

  • Think twice before sending mass emails; respect other people's time by sending email only to those who really need the information.

  • Never read other people's private email.

  • Be aware of where you are online; when entering a chat room or web space that's new to you, take some time to observe how others there behave, then interact only if you feel comfortable.

For more tips on proper behavior online, see Netiquette, by Virginia Shea.

 

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Beware of
identity theft —
Never give your
Social Security Number
on an online
application form
nor include it
on your resumé


 

 

Check out these
Professional
Networking Sites:

v  LinkedIn.com

 v Ryze.com

v Yorz.com

v Xing.com