5 Solid Tips for Landing a Job Online

It's easy to get frustrated with job hunting online. So many postings and applications to keep track of, and most of the time you never even hear back. Just remember that online applications do in fact work. They're not always fast or easy, but they may just be the ticket to your next job.

It will likely take more effort than a couple of submissions, but if you effectively use your personal network, and make sure you are qualified for each job, you stand a good chance at landing a job online.

Here are 5 great tips for successfully landing a job online:

Tip #1. Try to make a connection within the company you are applying to.

• Exercise your personal network to get an internal reference or find out what is going on with the job online.
• Connect with some local staffing firms to see if they work with the company on a contract or permanent basis.

Tip #2. When you apply online, make sure your resume highlights all requirements of the job. You might realize you have done the work, but if the hiring manager or HR professional that reviews the resume does not see it on paper, they will most likely overlook your resume.

• In today's economy, many hiring managers are seeing 50+ resumes per job they have online.
• They need to see that you match every requirement for their job in a quick 30 second scan, and that you back up the key words with more detail.

Tip #3. Make sure your resume is text format friendly.

• Many types of human resources software import information from the web into a text document.
• I suggest pasting your resume into Notepad and making sure it is understandable. If you're using an Emurse resume, you should be covered.
  

Tip #4. When all else fails, follow your submission up with a phone call.

• Call HR or the front desk, and ask who you should speak with about the position. This may show enough initiative to get your foot in the door
  

Tip #5. Keep track of your submissions

• Try an excel spreadsheet or a document with the position and company. Emurse.com mimics this process and will keep track of your applications for you. The site will even remind you when it's time to follow up with the employer.
  
• If you submit yourself twice, some companies will not consider you for the opportunity