Are you a tech professional searching for a new job opportunity? We have a tip for you that might be a bit surprising, just because it’s practically hidden in plain sight: Google is an incredible tool for candidates to use during a job search, and the ‘results’ can improve your prospects at any time during the process.
How can you put Google to work as your own personal job search engine? We’ve put together a quick list of helpful hints to get you started! The following is an overview of the easiest ways you can begin using Google to find the new opportunities you’re searching for:
1) Google your name to research your online reputation. Susan P. Joyce, editor and chief technology writer at Job-Hunt.org, recently reported that 80 percent of potential employers Google job seekers before inviting them for an interview. Candidates that didn’t pass this first screening were discarded almost immediately. You can avoid this problem by using a technique called “Defensive Googling,” in which you search your own name and scour the results to be sure that you’re using a “clean” version of your name.
2) Use Google Alerts to get early notifications about new job position listings. We think it’s a great idea to set up alerts for the companies you are interested in, rather than having to check the job boards listings everyday. Google Alerts will also notify you if someone mentions your name on the online. You can find a good how-to guide on setting up the Alerts here.
3) Get in touch with important people by searching for them through Google. The search engine can be a powerful tool to broaden your network and get back in touch with former connections. You can also use Google to find recruitment and hiring managers to send your resume direct.
4) Use Google Local to find new prospective employers. You can go to local.google.com and type in the location you want to search, then type in the kind of businesses you’re looking for. Your results will include a map with the names, addresses and websites to start researching.
4) Create an easy-to-access resume with Google Docs. You’ll find free templates that are easy to fill out and customize. The best part, though, is that you’ll be able to easily access your resume from any computer or mobile device, and share it with a prospective employer. This flexibility can make it easier to stay on top of unexpected opportunities.
5) Don’t forget to set up a Google Plus profile to enhance your social media and online presence. Did you know that Google Plus is currently the second largest social network, just after Facebook? That means it’s bigger than Linkedin. Set up an account if you don’t have one. Maintaining a Google Plus account will also drive up your rankings in a Google search conducted by prospective employers.
6) Prep for an interview by using Google to start your research. In a recent article, the folks at CIO.com recommend that candidates be prepared to ask good questions and “have a conversation” with hiring managers by using Google to come up with the questions using phrases such as ‘interview questions for IT candidate.’
You can find more great ideas about how to improve your online presence and use social media in your job search at the Market Street Talent blog page. When you visit us, also be sure to check our latest job listings and send us your resume. We want to hear from you!