How to Maximize Your Online Job Search

As a result of the digital revolution, recruiters and HR professionals are investing more resources in mobile recruiting, and more than ever, job seekers are using mobile devices to search positions and stay connected to opportunities. Whether you are job hunting for an entry-level to CEO position, technology is rapidly changing the way we live and work.

Tip #1 – Leverage Social Media:

Using Twitter to search jobs, follow target companies, or stay abreast of industry-related updates is a great way to stay connected and receive alerts on job openings before they are announced publicly. Hashtags such as #Careers or # JobOpening allow you to research jobs in general.  However, in the event you have a specialty area that interests you, use #TechJobs or # ProjectManagementJobs for a more targeted search. Additionally, Glassdoor has an app you can download on your iPhone or Android phone that allows you to apply for jobs from virtually anywhere.  

Bonus Tips: Be sure to Google yourself regularly to ensure you are sending the appropriate message to potential employers, clients, vendors, and/or prospects. Stay on top of social media comments about you or from you, photos tagged, and blog or wall posts that may be presenting an unfavorable impression of you. 

 Depending on how much time you can spare, job site apps are often more streamlined and easier to use from your phone. Using a computer might be a more efficient and effective approach if you are not employing an app due to the amount of information required to complete the online application questions. 

Tip #2 – Use LinkedIn to Stay Relevant & Visible:

A Jobvite Job Seeker Nation Study showed that 94% of recruiters use LinkedIn to search candidates.  Leverage LinkedIn’s mobile app to keep in touch with your professional community, engage in group discussions, view and save recommended jobs.  

Keep your LinkedIn profile current. Include an attention-getting headline in your profile.  Although your resume is generally succinct, hard-hitting, achievement-oriented, and to the point, your LinkedIn profile provides the real estate for highlighting your soft skills, personality, leadership philosophies, community interests, hobbies, publications, and/or coursework. Include a professional headshot and be sure to fully complete your summary and skills sections to enhance your profile view rate.

Boost your visibility by using LinkedIn weekly to connect with recruiters, comment on a post, share relevant content with your network to demonstrate industry expertise, or follow industry influencers. Investing a few minutes each week on LinkedIn can yield big returns during your job search.

Tip #3 – Upload Mobile-Friendly Resume and Cover Letter Formats:

In the event you are using a professional website, try uploading your resume and cover letter as PDF files to ensure they are mobile friendly and compatible across multiple platforms.

Use mobile-friendly fonts such as Calibri, Verdana, and Cambria if you decide to email a copy of your resume to yourself, and keep it in your In-Box or Folder on your phone. This allows you to easily attach it to an email and forward it to a recruiter or networking contact. Your professional resume and cover letter should be tailored for each position. This applies to all resumes—from entry-level to CEO positions and military veterans—the concept is the same regardless of career level.

Bonus Tip: Create a professional signature on your phone and remove the “Sent from my Samsung GALAXY s5”. Include your first and last names, email address, phone number, and, if you choose, your LinkedIn address. This shows your attention to detail and makes it easy for recruiters or hiring professionals to respond to your inquiries.

Tip #4 – Use a Secure Network:

Though nothing is 100% secure, using a VPN/Virtual Private Network when accessing public Wi-Fi will help provide an extra layer of security in the event you are responding to a prospective employer or transmitting sensitive or confidential employment information.  When using a shared public WI-FI, the VPN will diminish the risk of others viewing or gaining access to your information by protecting your IP address.

Tip# 5 – Email a Thank You Note:

With many employers using digital platforms to streamline their hiring process, it is totally acceptable to email a thank you note. Within 24 hours or less of being interviewed or contacted about a potential job opportunity, send an email note to thank the recruiter or hiring manager to reinforce your candidacy and to express appreciation for their time. Remember employers hire people who can solve problems, improve processes, drive revenue, and save money etc. Therefore, this is an excellent opportunity to briefly revisit your specific qualifications that make you the perfect fit for the position.

For help with how to write a good LinkedIn profile, executive resume, or cover letter for an executive position contact us today online resume services at resumesbyjoyce.com or 1-888-607-7793.