"I'm old school. I don't use computers," I still hear from job seekers from time to time; usually the long term unemployed. There is almost no getting around using the internet for finding a job. Go in person? You will likely be directed to the company website to put in an application. Call? The same thing. Drop off a resume? If it is not trashed, the same. "We like your resume, please apply on line." If you are reading this, you already know. What else should you be aware of?
1. Cutesy, unprofessional email addresses need to go. You want to come across as a mature professional, not a nine year old. I like having my name instead of something less clear. Sometimes people add numbers to make it work. Don't put your birth year at the end of your name like paul.lavack68@watever... This opens you up to the possibility of age discrimination. Instead use a random number, paul.lavack2166 if you need to.
2. Social media can be great for networking. Still be careful with what you post. Your right wing / left wing views are all well and good but keep in mind potential employers are going to be looking at your stuff. Right or wrong, you are going to turn some people off. Sure this is a free country and all but keep in mind roughly half of us disagree with of you. Look professional. Keep the party pictures to yourself. Choose wisely.
3. Check your email. A good rule of thumb is to respond within a day. Two months later, I can pretty much assure you that offer for an interview is no longer good. Use full sentences free from texting abbreviations. Spell check and reread before you send anything. Attention to small details is important.
4. Take the time to do the on line application completely. Yes, they are a time eating pain. So don't kill yourself. Do one or two a day really well. There are other things you can be doing.
5. Get off the internet! What? Yes, go out and get around people. Still the most important thing you can be doing is networking IN PERSON. Volunteer, join groups (not just professional groups either) and help out, in other words demonstrate your value. Demonstrate you are a hard worker, quick learner and a team player. Make it more than a resume headline. Live it.
Take your time and don't settle for just anything.
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