Having been unemployed for nearly half of 2011, I spent a lot of time on job-search websites. The list below represents the best for helping me find a job, and the sites didn’t waste a lot of my time.
I first compiled the list to help some of my relatives, but maybe it could help others who seek a new job or want hints for the hunt.
The 5 best sites to help you find a job:
LinkedIn: This is a must-do for all professionals, not just job-seekers. First, take care in filling out your profile – use keywords in the summary and skills section, get recommendations from former colleagues. Many recruiters will look for you here, and you want your major skills to easily found when they do searches.
Second, target companies you want to work for, then follow them onsite and check their job listings. Third, use the site for networking — start by finding people you know who are connected to companies you want to work for and ask them questions.
Craigslist: As long it has a section devoted to your locality, this site is still viewed by many employers as a great bargain for posting jobs. The volume of jobs here, divided into relevant categories, makes it great for browsing.
Monster: This is still the biggest job board, used by a huge number of employers. It’s worth creating a profile, saving searches (with email alerts), and storing versions of your resume. You’ll also find plenty of helpful articles about resumes, job interviews, and more. (Disclosure: Monster bought my former employer, Yahoo! HotJobs, so I may be a little partial.)
Indeed: At this site you can save a wide variety of searches, and it’s worth checking every day. In addition, this site aggregates listings from many other sites (including Monster) and save you time.
Specialty site for your industry (your choice): There are targeted sites for certain industries (e.g. local government, journalism, nonprofits) or for career types (e.g. nurses, freelancers). Some of the examples I used: Journalismjobs.com, Idealist.org, and oDesk.com. Do a little research, ask colleagues in your field for their ideas of best sites.
Don’t forget relevant professional groups (e.g. International Association of Business Communicators, National Association of Hispanic Journalists) and the jobs sections on your target companies’ websites.
Of course, websites won’t do it all. You’ve got to get out there and talk to others about your job search. Most experts say networking is the best strategy, and I agree. That’s how I got my current job.
For more ideas to help with job hunting, browse this site, check out my clips, or browse the sections on job interviews and job search.
Here’s another resource in case you had a New Year resolution to change jobs.
