As we come to the new age of the internet and whatnot, everything is transitioning to online processes.
This also includes the process of recruiting.
Nowadays, recruiters are finding people online across the globe.
Online job applications have become the norm for job seekers across industries and skill levels.
From entry-level positions to executive roles, companies are increasingly relying on digital platforms to recruit and hire new employees.
It is not surprising, since every company wants the best employee available, they will recruit people from anywhere available.
As employees, it is in our best interest to know the best way of applying for jobs online.
While online job applications have made it easier for job seekers to apply to multiple positions at once and save time on traditional paper applications, the digital application process can also be daunting and overwhelming.
With so many job search engines and career websites to choose from, job seekers can easily get lost in the sea of job postings, and it can be challenging to know where to start.
Furthermore, the rise of applicant tracking systems (ATS) and other algorithms used by companies to filter and screen resumes can make it challenging for job seekers to stand out from the crowd.
To succeed in today’s competitive job market, it’s crucial to understand how to optimize your job application for online platforms and search engines.
That’s why this guide is here to help.
By providing practical tips and guidance on applying for jobs online, we aim to make the process easier and more efficient for job seekers.
Whether you’re a recent college graduate just starting your job search or an experienced professional looking to take the next step in your career, this guide will provide you with the tools and knowledge you need to succeed in the digital job market.
Before we venture further into this article, we like to share who we are and what we do.
About 9cv9
9cv9 is a business tech startup based in Singapore with a strong presence all over the world.
With over six years of startup and business experience, and being highly involved in connecting with thousands of companies and startups, the 9cv9 team has listed some important learning points in this overview of how to apply for jobs online.
Tips and Guidance on Applying for Jobs Online
- Online job application
- Document Preparations
- Additional Tips
1. Online job applying research
1.1. Apply for Jobs on Company Websites
Company websites are a good source of job listings, especially if you know what companies you are interested in working for.
You can go directly to the site and search for and apply for jobs online directly on many company websites.
At most company sites, you can apply for all level positions online – from part-time hourly jobs to top management positions.
Apply directly on the company website whenever possible, even if you find the listing elsewhere.
Your application will go directly into the company’s applicant tracking system and you’ll be able to monitor its progress.
Step-by-step quick guide on how to apply for jobs on company websites:
- Research the Company’s Career Page: Begin by navigating to the company’s career page or job portal. Most companies will have a “Careers” or “Jobs” link on their website, which will take you to their job listings.
- Search for Jobs: Use the search bar or filters to find jobs that match your skills and experience. You can also browse through different job categories to discover new opportunities.
- Review Job Descriptions: Once you find a job that interests you, carefully review the job description and requirements. Make sure you meet the qualifications and responsibilities listed and that the job aligns with your career goals.
- Create an Account: Some companies require you to create an account before you can apply for jobs. This will typically involve providing your name, email address, and password.
- Upload Your Resume and Cover Letter: Once you’ve found a job you’re interested in and have created an account, it’s time to upload your resume and cover letter. Some companies may require you to fill out additional forms or answer pre-screening questions as part of the application process.
- Review and Submit Your Application: Before submitting your application, review it carefully to ensure all information is accurate and complete. Make sure you’ve included all relevant experience and qualifications and that your resume and cover letter are tailored to the specific job you’re applying for.
- Follow-Up: After submitting your application, it’s a good idea to follow up with the company to confirm they received your application and to express your continued interest in the position. You can typically find contact information for the company’s HR department or recruiter on their website.
Remember to tailor your application materials to each job you apply for, and follow up with the company to demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment.
1.2. Create Accounts on Online Jobs Sites
In addition to using job boards (which post jobs submitted by employers), using a job search engine can save you a lot of online job search time.
When you use a job search engine, you can search for jobs found across various job boards and employer websites.
Some job boards and company websites require users to create an account when they looking for applying for jobs online.
It’s a good idea to start your online job search by creating an account on at least one of the major job boards like 9cv9 or Jobsrefer.
If you’re seeking a professional position, it’s also important to create a profile on LinkedIn.
Many job sites allow you to set up job alerts, which will notify you when new job postings that match your preferences become available.
This can be a helpful way to stay up-to-date on new job opportunities without having to check the job site constantly.
Remember to keep your profile up-to-date and tailor your job search to your specific career goals and interests.
1.3. Read the job description carefully
As we mentioned in past blogs, we encourage you to actually take the time to read the job description carefully.
The job description provides important details about the position, such as the job title, responsibilities, and qualifications required.
By carefully reviewing the job description, you can gain a better understanding of what the role entails and whether it aligns with your career goals and interests.
Every job has different terms and requirements.
We encourage you to take notes on the requirements that are frequently repeated in many job posts.
When applying for a job, it’s essential to tailor your application to the specific position and company.
By reviewing the job description, you can identify the skills and qualifications the employer is looking for and highlight relevant experience in your application materials.
This will help you when you’re building your resume.
Make sure you have the skills and experience that the employer is looking for.
Think about previous situations when you demonstrated the relevant skills and behaviors the employer requires and how you could clearly express this in your application.
The job description can also provide valuable information that can help you prepare for interviews.
For example, the description may list specific skills or experience that the employer is looking for, allowing you to prepare examples or stories that demonstrate your expertise in these areas.
By carefully reviewing the job description, you can avoid common mistakes that can hurt your chances of getting the job.
For example, if the job description lists a specific qualification or requirement, make sure you meet these criteria before applying.
Failing to meet the requirements listed in the job description can lead to rejection from the employer.
2. Document Preparations
2.1. Build / Update Your Resume
As mentioned before, when building your resume, you want to make sure that you have the skills and experience that the employer is looking for.
In addition, inserting those frequent information, as mentioned above, will help you when applying for jobs online.
You might want to look at our blog on how to make a perfect resume.
Here are some quick tips to help you create a compelling resume:
- Choose the Right Format: There are several resume formats to choose from, including chronological, functional, and combination. Choose the format that best highlights your skills and experience.
- Tailor Your Resume to the Job: Customize your resume for each job you apply for. Highlight relevant experience, skills, and achievements that align with the job requirements.
- Use Strong Action Verbs: Begin each bullet point with a strong action verb to describe your accomplishments and responsibilities. This helps to make your resume more engaging and impactful.
- Quantify Your Achievements: Use numbers and statistics to quantify your achievements, such as the number of clients you served, the percentage of sales growth you achieved, or the size of the team you managed.
- Focus on Results: Instead of simply listing your responsibilities, focus on the results you achieved in each role. Employers are more interested in what you accomplished than what you were responsible for.
- Keep it Concise: Your resume should be no longer than two pages, and preferably one page. Focus on your most relevant experience and achievements and leave out irrelevant information.
- Use Keywords: Many employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes. Make sure to include relevant keywords from the job description in your resume to increase your chances of getting past the ATS.
- Proofread and Edit: Carefully proofread and edit your resume for errors and typos. Have someone else review it as well to ensure it is error-free.
By following these tips, you can create a strong resume that highlights your skills and experience and increases your chances of getting hired.
2.2. Have a Cover Letter Ready
The validity of a cover letter is often debated, with more than a third of recruiters saying they’re no longer relevant.
Yet, whether you believe in them or not, many employers still do.
So make them count.
Unless the job listing specifically says not to, you should always include a cover letter when applying for jobs online.
Here are some quick tips to help you create an effective cover letter:
- Address the Hiring Manager: Address your cover letter to the hiring manager by name, if possible. This shows that you have done your research and are genuinely interested in the position.
- Introduce Yourself: Begin your cover letter by introducing yourself and explaining why you are interested in the position.
- Highlight Your Skills and Experience: In the body of your cover letter, highlight your skills and experience as they relate to the job requirements. Use specific examples to demonstrate your achievements and qualifications.
- Show Enthusiasm: Express your enthusiasm for the job and the company. Show that you have researched the company and understand its mission and values.
- Keep it Concise: Your cover letter should be no longer than one page. Focus on the most important information and avoid repeating your resume.
- Use a Professional Tone: Use a professional and polite tone in your cover letter. Avoid using slang or informal language.
- Proofread and Edit: Carefully proofread and edit your cover letter for errors and typos. Have someone else review it as well to ensure it is error-free.
- Follow Up: If you haven’t heard back from the employer after a week or two, follow up with a polite email to express your continued interest in the position.
By following these tips, you can create a strong cover letter that highlights your skills and experience and increases your chances of getting hired.
2.3. Triple-check your CV/Resume and cover letter for spelling, content, and grammar mistakes
Your CV/Resume and cover letter are often the first impressions a potential employer has of you. Spelling, content, and grammar errors can make you appear unprofessional and careless.
Employers are looking for candidates who are detail-oriented and thorough. By triple-checking your CV/Resume and cover letter, you demonstrate that you have strong attention to detail and are committed to presenting yourself in the best possible light.
Errors can make it difficult for employers to accurately assess your qualifications, potentially leading to missed opportunities.
Moreover, the job market can be highly competitive, and small errors can give other candidates an advantage. By ensuring that your CV/Resume and cover letter are error-free, you increase your chances of standing out from other applicants.
Review your application before you submit it.
Once you click ‘submit’ your information is sent directly to the recruiter.
Remember that first impressions count, so make the best one you can when you apply.
3. Additional Tips
3.1. Be Picky, Not Desperate
Think quality, not quantity.
Concentrate on the companies you’d be really excited to work for, and whose roles actually line up with your experience and skills.
Be particularly wary of throwing everything at one company’s wall to see what sticks.
Allison Green, the author of the Ask a Manager blog, says, “The danger in applying for multiple jobs at the same organization is that you can come across as unfocused or naive about what you’re well suited for.”
Make sure you understand the requirements for a job.
Only apply if you meet the position’s requirements.
It is better to apply only for jobs at organizations you want to work for and that match your goals and skill set.
Since it can take some time to fill out an application for each job, you can save more time by being selective during your search process.
3.2. Get In The Application Weeds
Andrea Clement, a Communications Director of a national healthcare recruiting firm, says, “Most of the time, if the directions aren’t followed, you won’t be considered for the job,” she says.
Ouch.
So, make sure to read carefully (e.g., if they ask for your best sample, don’t send five), include necessary documentation (like a cover letter or references), and hit up spell check.
3.3. Review your social media profile
Let’s be honest.
Finding jobs online is about selling yourself, so you need to know how to flaunt your goods.
Many recruiters are partial to LinkedIn because everything is laid out in the same way, so they can quickly skim through to hone in on their perfect candidates—which means your profile needs to be legit.
If you are applying for jobs online, make sure you have a positive online presence.
Many employers will look you up online to verify the claims in your application.
You should check your social media privacy settings to ensure employers can’t access any information you would rather they didn’t see.
3.4. Use Job Search Keywords
When you’re looking to apply for jobs online, the most effective way to search is to use job keywords to find jobs in the career fields and industries you are interested in.
Keywords can be more effective than using the predefined search options in the job banks because they search the entire listing (job description, job title, contact information, etc.) for the keyword(s) that you use.
Create a list of job search keywords that reflect your job interests, including the location where you want to work, type of position, industry, etc. Also, review these lists of skills for resumes so that you can match your skills to the job requirements.
Conclusion
In conclusion, applying for jobs online can be a daunting process, but with the right tips and guidance, you can increase your chances of success.
From optimizing your job application for search engines to creating a strong resume and cover letter, there are many steps you can take to make yourself stand out from other applicants.
Remember to research the company and tailor your application to the job requirements.
Use strong action verbs, quantify your achievements, and focus on results in your resume.
Use a professional and polite tone in your cover letter, and be sure to triple-check your application for spelling, content, and grammar mistakes.
By following these tips and guidance, you can improve your chances of getting noticed by potential employers and landing your dream job. Good luck with your job search.
If you find this article useful, why not share it among your jobseeker and applicant counterparts, and also leave a nice comment below?
We at 9cv9 Research Team strive to bring the latest and most meaningful data, guide, and statistics to your doorstep.
