Job Hunting Online

Most jobs outside of high-tech industries are still found through traditional means. So don't rely solely on the Internet for your job search!!! Nevertheless, the Internet is a job hunting tool and it's important to know how to compete in that arena. Keep in mind, though, that the Internet has really just speeded up traditional job hunt processes.

Assessing Online

There are many sites that offer career assessments. You can find links to some of these if you click on Texas Job Hunter's Guide at http://www.cdr.state.tx.us/shared/JobHunters.asp.

Hunting Online

To learn about employers who are hiring, visit:

1. webpages of employers that interest you;
   
   
2. career-oriented sites, some of which can be found by clicking on Texas Job Hunter's Guide at http://www.cdr.state.tx.us/shared/JobHunters.asp.

Contacting Employers Online

You can contact many employers online by completing an application form at their website or emailing your résumé. Send a hardcopy of your résumé and cover letter, too!

Online Applications

Online application forms are still uncommon. To respond, follow the guidelines for a regular application (Application Form).

Email Résumés

Email résumés are simply email versions of your regular résumé (see Résumé Achievement Statements, Résumé Guidelines, and Example Résumé). To send an email résumé, follow these steps:

• Save your print résumé as a text-only document.
  
  
• Paste the text into an email message. DON'T attach it! Many companies won't open attachments because of the risk of computer viruses. Also, employers may not take the time to open the attachment and convert it into software that they can use.
  
  
• Don't use bold, italics, underlining or other formatting.
  
  
• Do use asterisks as bullets, spacing to separate sections and capitalization on the headings.
  
  
• Do hit [Enter] after every 65 characters.
  
  
• List the job title or number in the Subject line.
  
  
• Start your email with your cover letter (see Cover Letter).

Waiting For Employers to Contact You

Passive job hunting rarely succeeds but your web résumé and portfolio can appeal to already interested employers.

Posting Your Résumé

You can post your résumé online at any number of career sites, such as www.monster.com or www.WorkInTexas.com. Each site explains in detail how to proceed.

Web Résumé and Portfolio

A web résumé (a webpage of your résumé) and portfolio (examples of your work online, e.g., photos) can be helpful, especially if you specialize in website design, graphic arts or related fields. Once you create them, make sure you keep them updated!

• Format your résumé using HTML and add it to your personal website or webpage.
  
  
• Link readers directly to former employers' homepages.
  
  
• Link your résumé to high-resolution scanned images of your work and other items from your portfolio.
  
  
• Make sure it's well-organized and easy to navigate.
  
  
• Keep it simple: no clutter or slow-to-download extras.
  
  
• Avoid gimmicks, e.g., flashing text, hard-to-read colors.

Interviewing Online

Online interviews are still rare but they may grow more popular as employers realize they can "weed out" unqualified applicants without having to speak with them directly. If you are required to answer interview questions online, respond just as you would in person. Make sure you don't have typing errors, though!

If You're "Computer-Challenged"

You can access a computer for free by visiting your local workforce center or public library (see Professional Services). The staff at either location can help you "surf" the web. You can also learn by asking a friend, reading a book or taking a class.