Searching Online for Jobs in a Down Economy

It seems as if every day, the news is full of new headlines about the economy shedding jobs. In November, for example, it was reported that employers across the country cut more than 500,000 jobs. It's not a good time to be out of work, and trying to find a new job in these times can be downright disheartening. Nevertheless, there are jobs out there, and employers looking to hire. Plus, the Internet has rapidly become a new tool to aid job seekers in their hunt for new opportunities. The following tips will help give today's job seekers an edge in searching online for new jobs.

1. Focus On What You Bring to the Table - This is true for anyone looking for a job, but in a down economy, it's doubly true. In tough times, more people are competing for fewer jobs, which allows prospective employers to be choosy. Therefore, it's up to you to make certain that you stand out among the competition. So before beginning your job search or sitting down for that interview, take some time and list some of the challenges you have faced in your career. Reflect on how you dealt with these challenges and list the results. Did they save the company money? Make operations more efficient? Attract new business? Cultivate better relationships with customers? Success stories can help you better market yourself to prospective employers. Be sure to cite others' opinions of you, any testimonials or letters of commendation you may have.

2. Research Your Prospective Employer - The Internet makes this step a lot easier than it used to be. In a down economy, competition for jobs is even more fierce than usual. Knowing about the organization for which you want to work can give you an advantage, as well as help you better market yourself in terms of what you have to offer.

3. Build an Online Network - Sites such as FaceBook and LinkedIn can connect you with other professionals. Find former employers and colleagues, and ask them to join your network on these and other professional networking sites. Also, if there is a national association or organization associated with your profession, get a membership if you haven't already.

4. Check Your Online Image - The important thing here is to keep it professional. Make certain that your resumes, cover letters, and e-mails are well written and free of errors. These are your marketing documents, and nothing can send them to the circular file faster than if they contain typos or bad grammar. Make sure your online presence and e-mail address are professional. Remove any pictures, postings, etc. that might give you a bad reputation professionally. An e-mail address like "partydude" will not help you, either.

In times of economic hardship, it can be more of a challenge than ever to land a new job. But opportunities exist, and many of them can be found online. The key here, as with any job search, is to sell yourself. Remember that you are your own best advertisement.