Searching for Jobs Online
An online job search is an easy and convenient method to look for work. Some companies will only accept online job applications. You can use an online job search strategy to assist you in researching potential employers and learn more about the labour market in your area.
Top Tips
✓ Use multiple methods to see more opportunities. Visit employer websites and use job boards to expand the number of opportunities you see.
✓ Update your job search website profile frequently. Recruiters will see recently updated resumes first when they search for candidates.
✓ Keep track of your applications. Use the Job Search Tracking Tool to record when you applied to a job and if you were invited to an interview.
✓ Don’t share personal information before the interview. Legitimate employers don’t request personal information, such as your SIN or date of birth, until after they interview you and you have accepted the job.
✓ If you suspect a scam, consult a trusted source. You can ask a parent, a professor, or your college employment support centre if you have doubts about a job.
Internship Opportunities
Indigenous Employment
Introduction to Online Job Search
There are several methods of looking for a job online. Watch the video (The Learning Portal Online, 2018) and read the descriptions of each method in the tabs. However you find job openings, you should always keep track of the ones to which you apply. You can use the Job Search Tracking Tool.
Individual Employer Websites
Create a list of employers that you would like to work for and visit their websites, especially their ‘Careers’ page, frequently. Employers often receive so many resumes that they do not need to post their positions to a job board. By visiting their websites you can see any available positions. If a website has a resume bank, upload yours.
Use these resources to help you develop a list:
Business directories, such as the Yellow Pages
Local directories such as The Ottawa Business Journal’s annual Book of Lists
Professional Associations
Use the Job Search Tracking Tool to track and record the employers you have researched.
Job Search Websites
Improve your chances of finding a job on a job search website:
Post your resume and update it regularly. Employers can match your resume to a position. Many recruiters look at resumes according to how recently they were posted.
Search for jobs using a variety of keywords. Jobs are listed by a range of different titles. Try synonyms of your keywords so that you don’t miss jobs. Setting up email alerts for your searches may also be helpful.
Don’t wait until the closing date to apply. If they are looking to fill an opening immediately, employers may start reviewing applications before the position closes.
Keep track of the jobs to which you apply. You can use the Job Search Tracking Tool.
Use the websites in the List of Job Search Websites to get started.
Employment Scams
While there are plenty of legitimate jobs to be found online, there are also employment scams that aim to get your money or your personal information. Be an informed and proactive job seeker to avoid getting tricked. Watch the video (The Learning Portal Ontario, 2018) or read the information below for tips to help you avoid getting scammed.
How to avoid scams
Research every opportunity. Research and assess every job posting, company, and employment agency to which you apply. Contact them yourself directly if necessary. When in doubt, proceed with caution!
Don’t share personal information before you have been interviewed. A legitimate employer typically requests personal information only after an interview has been completed, references have been verified, and an offer of employment has been made and signed. Personal information includes SIN, date of birth, marital status, driver’s license or health card, and banking information.
Do not spend your own money or transfer funds. Don’t pay suppliers or buy anything for the business. Don’t transfer funds, whether to the employer or on their behalf.
Don’t accept payment before you start. You should also avoid accepting payment before starting a job, or for services that have not been completed. If someone gives you money to spend prior to starting a job - be cautious, and don't do it.
Consult a trusted source. Sounds too good to be true? Seek advice from a trusted source, such as a parent, a professor, or your college employment support centre.
What to do if you suspect an employment scam
End all communication with the employer.
If personal information was disclosed, change all of your passwords and monitor your accounts to be on the safe side.
If you sent money to a fraudulent employer, contact your bank or a credit card company immediately for further instructions.
Gather all records of the fraud and contact the police to report it: RCMP – Reporting Scams and Frauds.
Attribution
Unless otherwise stated, the material in this guide is from the Learning Portal created by College Libraries Ontario. Content has been adapted for the NWP Learning Commons in June 2021. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons BY NC SA 4.0 International License.
All icons on these pages are from The Noun Project. See individual icons for creator attribution.