10 Tips for Your Online Job Search

By Chelle Shell


With today’s job market in the state it is in, you have to get creative in getting the most out of the online hiring resources available. Below are 10 tips on how to do so:

1. Take advantage of job seeker resume upgrades.
Even highly qualified and talented professionals are challenged by elevating their visibility to potential employers. With most online job boards’ Resume Upgrade options, you increase your chances of being seen by recruiters and hiring managers by having your resume bumped up to the top when you apply for a job. Your resume is also highlighted when they use the online Resume Search to review candidates’ resumes.

2. Utilize the online job boards’ job email alerts and RSS feeds.
These pro-active tools allow you to create and manage your job search by sending you notifications automatically based on the type of job you are looking for and as new listings become available.

3. Write a cover letter specific to each job you apply for.
ALWAYS include a specific and detailed cover letter when submitting your resume. Include paralleled talents you have with the skill-set the organization is looking for. This is not an autobiography – keep it to one page or less.

4. Know the mission and the culture of the organization to which you are applying.
Research, research, research – I cannot stress this point enough! This is the one time being nosy is encouraged. Guidestar is an excellent resource as they have more than 1.8 million nonprofit organizations who can list their reports with information about their missions, programs, leaders, goals, and accomplishments for free.

5. Keep your job search organized.
Most online job boards allow you to save your searches in your account, so be sure to take advantage of this. Also, keep a log of the positions and organizations to which you’ve applied. When the phone call comes in to schedule an interview, KNOW who is on the other line and what job opening they are calling about.

6. Only apply to openings you are truly qualified for and stay focused.
It may seem like a good idea to randomly apply for jobs you’re not exactly right for, but DON’T do it. Applying to jobs haphazardly is never a good idea. Another position may become available later you are perfect for but by applying earlier to a job you weren’t qualified for will ruin your credibility with the organization. The “unqualified” file is a dark and lonely place to rest.

7. Stay up-to-date and accurate. Your resume must have current dates and contact information. Your employment and salary history must be exact.

8. This same rule applies to your list of references. Make sure your references know to expect a phone call and it’s probably not a good idea to list your ex-partner or a boss who fired you.

9. Mispled werds, tpyos and gramaticle errors are a surefire way to narrow down the talent pool for a hiring manager!
Get out the good ol’ dusty Webster’s Dictionary and use it. DO NOT rely on spell check. Have two different people you trust proofread your resume and cover letters. Six eyes are always better than two!

10. The resume title / subject line / objective statement in your online profile is imperative.
This is the initial item the employer sees prior to opening your resume file. It is the very first impression of you and your only chance at landing an interview so make it count. Be creative and original yet professional.

These tips may seem like common sense, but you would be surprised at some of the resumes I see. Follow these rules and you won’t fall in to the category of mediocre applicants or, more importantly, the shredder!

About the Author
Michelle “Chelle” Shell has worked in management for over 14 years in positions ranging from recruitment to public relations. In her current role as Client Development Manager for Opportunity Knocks she assists national nonprofit organizations and recruitment agencies connect with talented, qualified nonprofit professionals and HR management solutions. Chelle is passionate about health related missions and is active in her transitioning neighborhood association as well as local tennis associations. Contact Chelle at ms@opportunityknocks.org