Despite all the tools and technology that we can use for finding a job, a job search can still be difficult and frustrating. With a job market filled with new graduates, recent immigrants, and people returning to the workforce, finding the right job can be overwhelming.
Here are tips that can help you conduct an online job search so you can find a job that is right for you.
Use Multiple Online Job Boards
When companies are hiring, one of the first places they’ll publicize the job opening are online job boards. Job boards are an easy way to apply online for open job opportunities.
But it’s important to understand that every job board you see online are not the same – sure they all help you find open job positions, but each of them differ in how they look and how job seekers interact with their websites.
You might even have a favourite one that you use – whether it’s because they have advanced search filters or maybe their web page is easy to navigate. But you are potentially restricting your job search efforts by only using one job site!
Different job sites often have hundreds of different job openings. So, you could be potentially missing out on applying for your dream job if you are only searching through one job board.
There are plenty of job boards that are popular with job seekers today – try using all of them! Increase your chances of finding your next job by performing an online job search across multiple job boards – look through job sites like Indeed, Zip Recruiter, Monster and more to filter out your next job.
While you’re looking at different job boards, don’t forget to check out the VPI Job Board
Use Specific Keywords
Whether you’re using a job board or a search engine to look for jobs, the keywords you use could make a big difference in what you find.
Try your best to be as specific as possible when you are searching through online job boards. Most popular job boards have advanced search features that help job seekers pinpoint which jobs fit their search criteria. But, simply typing in “student jobs” or “warehouse jobs” may yield hundreds of results – so many that you may only get to apply to a handful of them.
Remember, when you are searching online, be specific! What kind of job are you looking for? What is the exact title of the position you want? Is it a junior position or a senior position? Which city are you willing to work in (Toronto, Hamilton, Markham, etc.,)? Are you looking for full-time, part-time, or seasonal work? Consider these questions when you are using the search function on the job board. So, instead of searching “student jobs”, a more specific search that may help you find better results would be “summer student jobs in Scarborough” or “finance entry level fall”.
In the end, you may have to use some broader terms to cast a wider net. But using specific terms will help you get a sense of what’s out there.
If you want to learn more about how to find the right job for you, register for our Occupational Research Workshops.
Don’t Keep It a Secret
You never know how or when you will land your next job. By letting people know that you are actively looking for work, you can increase your chances of finding your next job.
Whether it’s over a coffee with a friend or on your online LinkedIn profile, word of mouth and networking is one of the best ways to access the hidden job market.
Through word-of-mouth, it’s possible that a simple conversation can guide you towards your next career. “I know my buddy’s company is looking to hire for the position you’re looking for” or “My friend is a manager at this company, I’ll ask if she’s hiring or know anyone that is looking to fill in that position”. These are possible responses you will receive if you let people know you are looking for work – so don’t keep it a secret!
It’s important to note that it’s not reasonable or appropriate to bring up your job search efforts in every conversation you have. But if the context is right and the opportunity presents itself; the rewards could be high if you let them know you are available for work.