Online Job Search Strategy

HireAC

First and foremost, HireAC is an online job board exclusive to Algonquin students and graduates. You can visit this website through your ACSIS account on a regular basis to view a variety of current full-time, part-time, and summer employment opportunities in a variety of industries and career fields. You can set up alerts to be notified when opportunities in your field are posted. Furthermore, you can also find out about job fairs, networking events, and employer information sessions on the Upcoming Events/Workshops Calendar.

Employer Websites

Make a list of target employers and visit their websites often. Employers often receive so many resumes that they don’t always need to post their positions to a job board to attract interest. Therefore, by creating a list of employers that you may be interested in working for and frequently visiting their “Careers” section, you will ensure that you are seeing any available positions. If their websites have a resume bank, be sure to upload your resume. There are a number of different resources to help you develop a list:

• Business directories, such as the Yellow Pages
• LinkedIn company directory
• The Ottawa Business Journal’s annual Book of Lists
• Professional associations

List your top organizations and keep track of their information:

Online Job Boards and Search Engines

Although online postings are among the most highly populated job search methods used by job seekers, they only account for a small percentage of available jobs. Nonetheless, they are still a convenient way to look for employment and for certain companies this may be the only option. Once you have entered a site, you would typically use a search engine to find advertised jobs by inputting a keyword and location. Most of these online sites allow you to post your resume directly with the idea that an employer or recruiter may match you to a position and contact you directly. Review the following recommendations to improve your response rate:

• While setting up and receiving targeted email alerts may be helpful, ensure that if you’ve posted your resume, you are updating your information regularly, as many recruiters are looking at resumes according to how recently they were posted.
• Jobs are often listed by a range of different titles; remember to change your search criteria frequently to maximize your search results.
• Lastly, don’t wait until the closing date to apply; the early bird catches the worm. If looking to fill an opening immediately, employers may start reviewing applications before the
  position closes.
• For a list of common websites visit Employment Support Centre website under the Students and Grads tab.

When you are using and creating profiles on multiple sites, it can be overwhelming to remember all the information. Record it in a safe space on your computer by using a tracking tool like this:

Professional Association Websites

Many industries and occupations have professional associations further to providing information on professional standards. These can be a valuable resource in your job search. Becoming a member of a professional association links you to members who have similar interests and qualifications. Typically, on a professional association website, you will find information about relevant job listings, upcoming conferences and events, career development opportunities, industry trends, publications, and newsletters. Attending conferences and events may lend favour to potential networking opportunities. Learning industry trends could prove useful in your next job interview, and accessing member directories may assist you in setting up an informational interview to gain valuable industry-specific career advice.