The Pros of Searching for a Job Online - Did I Just Say Pros?
Posted: Wednesday, November 11, 2009
by Teresa Ortiz
Freelance writer/Speaker
Times have changed since the last time I was searching for a job. It used to be that you walked through the doors of any given company well-dressed, resume in hand, and ready for work. This past week I discovered this is no longer the "proper" method and to do such a thing invites a look that says, "What rock have you been hiding under?"
So after pounding the pavement for two days, I decided to ride the wave of change and apply online. Surely these would meet with excellent results, especially since I am well qualified in the areas of administration, accounting, and public relations.
Many of my readers have learned that while I can be sweet, charming, and sensitive (I know, you can throw up now) you also have come to expect my wit and sarcasm. Well who am I to disappoint and since this is my first post in several weeks, why not start with sarcasm. I'll get back to the sweet, charming, and sensitive mumbo jumbo next time around.
Where was I? O' yes, the pros of an online job search. Here is a list of the top six.
6) You can narrow your search by field specification.
5) By posting your resume in one place, you can easily be contacted by anyone.
4) You will receive mass emails about all the contests you have won.
3) You will receive text messages telling you to call a number regarding the "position" for which you recently applied.
2) You will receive phone calls from a "manager" who wants to set up an interview regarding the "position" for which you recently applied.
1) You increase the possibility of receiving several viruses that cause your computer to crash and you will have to borrow someone else's computer so that you can continue your job search and be of assistance to he or she so that he or she will receive notifications about all the contests he or she has won.
Now that I have released a little bit of frustration, allow to give you a specific example that may help you in your search for a job. I found my experience helpful to my daughter who has only been in the world of full-time work for two years and would not have been suspicious of such things.
I received a call from a woman who introduced herself as the manager of a "highly successful company" who asked me if I was interested in a position where I would be helping families with their financial profiles. She asked a few legitimate questions such as why I left my last place of employment and if I was available for immediate employ. There was a change in her mannerism when I asked her a few basic questions for instance, what kind of benefits does your company offer. She paused a moment and then said it would depend on how our interview went and how I was placed. She quickly offered me a time to come in and she would discuss it further at that time. After confirming the appointment, I did a search on the company and though legitimate, her intentions were not. There were several complaints on the company from other job seekers saying it was a scam and in actuality the position available was for an independent contractor selling their financial products.
When I called her back to tell her what I discovered she said this was not the case with this particular position. She stated I would be working directly for the company and gave me a "better" website to visit. She continued to avoid additional questions such as salary range and she didn't have anything at all to say when I asked her how she came across my resume when I did not specifically apply for the position. Nevertheless, I gave her the benefit of the doubt and went to the "better" website. Still unsure, I called her and cancelled my appointment.
My daughter asked me why I was so suspicious and I told her that any manager of a company would be able to answer a simple question about medical insurance.
The bottom line is that anyone searching for a job online must exercise common sense and follow their instincts. The worst thing any of us can do is jump at something because we desperately need a job.
While perusing craigslist with my daughter this morning, we came across our favorite advertised job thus far it went something like this:
Restaurant Hostess/Waitress wanted, females need only apply. Due to the nature of our clientele, we have an age requirement of 21-26 years of age, neat appearance is a must. Starting wage: $30.00 per hour
Why don't they just say, "Raunchy strip club for so-called gentlemen in need of girls who don't mind men gawking at them. We will pay you $30.00 an hour to make it worth your wile."
Again, use sound wisdom, check as many resources as possible before following through with a scheduled interview and do not open the plethora of junk mail you will receive regarding contests or opportunities for education. Respond only to emails or phone calls you receive regarding a specific job for which you have applied. It will save you time and money.
**Special thanks to my mom whom without the generous offer to use her computer, this article would not be possible.**
Teresa Ortiz
This Article has been viewed 1,738 times. (Not updated in real-time.)
More commentsWhat a terrific well written article Teresa, liked the last line!Thanks for reading Gracey and for the great review :-) My mom is a sweetheart and has been very helpful, I am blessed. Many blessings to you! Teresa
Excellent composition, style and tone. Your message was better.Hi Dave, thanks for reading and for the wonderful critique, I appreciate it and I do hope this info is helpful to someone. Welcome to Searchwarp, I don't recall seeing your name, if you have been around awhile, forgive me. I will read your work shortly. Blessings to you! Teresa
Oh my, I can relate to this article....Thank you so much for writing it....Great work...you have a great sense of humor...I love it...Arnold HenryOnly 23 - An Autobiography by Arnold HenryHi Arnold, welcome to searchwarp! thanks for reading and the great review, I appreciate it. And thanks for joining my fan club. I will read your work shortly. Blessings to you! Teresa
Great article Teresa, and although I am not searching for a full time job, I'd be delighted to find something I could do online. I've tried to find such several times and I run into some crud as you just spoke of. Downright aggravating. Thanks for sharing.Hi Joe, I agree with you. Being self employeed would have so many advantages, accept for the insurance thing. Art is self-employed which is why I have to have a job that provides medical insurance. Thanks for reading and commenting. I always love your input. Blessings to you T
Great article. Searching for jobs online is a whole other animal than doing things face to face.Hi Graham, thanks for reading and the nice comment. You are not kidding, things sure have changed! Blessings to you! Teresa
I read this article before and now I am reading it through the readers club. I hope you find a job soon. I know God has the perfect one for you. What part of Cal. did you move to.Thanks again Linda, I pray this week will be fruitful. Lord knows I need a job.
Informative, intelligent and humorous. I enjoyed this article very much! Thanks for sharing Teresa and again... welcome back!Wow! Thanks Edward, that's quite a compliment, glad you enjoyed it and I do hope it is useful to someone. Blessings to you brother Ed :-)
Hi T,It has been a few days but I am glad to see your trip to CA was successful. I know like mom said that God has a perfect job for you.Don't forget all the scammers who say they are passing and want to give you tons of $$$.Love and hugs,MichelleThanks so much Michelle. I know it is his timing. It's another time to trust for his provision. Art is working so I am grateful for that, it is afterall, why we moved. But we do not have any health insurance and with his health issues, we really need it. I know God will provide. I have applied for all kinds of jobs, no response yet. Maybe this week! I am praying for your healing as well. It hasn't been an easy time for you. May the Lord continue to shower you with peace during the process. Love you bunches! T
hi t,you would think in this technological age, it would be easy to find a job online. obviously, not. i wish you luck in finding a job with health insurance. i have none, and it is not a good thing to be without. it will happen, though.it's not like you don't put everything into what you do.the right job will come along, i have no doubt.you know God won't let you down...my best to you,sueHi Sue, How are you? It's good to hear from you. I agree with everything you said. Especially the part about God :-) Hugs, t
Wonderful to see you again, Sis! Lots has happened.Great article! I know you will land a job soon. You're too talented not to!Hey bro! I have been thinking about you and praying for you. So write me! What has happened. Thanks for the support, I appreciate it. Sis
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