Conquering The Online Job Search

by Meredith Jannsen
Director, ASHP’s CareerPharm

Over the past 10 years online recruiting has come to the forefront of the recruiting industry. While traditional methods such as print advertising and networking are still widely used, low-cost and traceable ROI have made online recruiting an invaluable resource for employers. On the flip side online job searches can be a frustrating and sometimes demeaning experience for the job seeker. You begin your search with high hopes and look forward to the flood of responses your online resume will return. You read a job description and believe you are a perfect match for the job. You submit your application and wait and wait but never hear a response.

Don’t get discouraged and more importantly, don’t take it personally. There are things you can do to increase the likelihood that your online resume will return results. Before you do anything you must understand that the volume of resumes that recruiters receive on a daily basis make it impossible to thoroughly read though every single one. In addition to screening candidates they have additional responsibilities and many human resource professionals work 10-12 hour days and sometimes work 7 days a week days a week to keep up. It is unrealistic to expect feedback on every single application on why you didn’t make the cut. Resume screening is the first part of the process and recruiters are looking for a match based on the whether applicants’ skills match the job description and requirements, what their background and experience is and the specific needs of the hiring manager. The playing field is very competitive and while you very well may be qualified, so are 40 other applicants.

Hang in there – there are things you can do to help move your resume to the top the pile. First, make sure you’re dedicating enough time to your job search. Persistence pays off and though it may feel like a full time job, the best advice for job seekers is to keep at it. If you haven’t had someone proofread your resume, do so now. A well written resume that conveys your skills and experience will work wonders toward finding you the right fit. When using a job board you can also alter your resume and add some key words that match the job description. For example, if a job requires 5 years of acute care experience then make sure you have included that information in your resume if valid. Employers will use key words in online resume searches so altering your resume slightly may be effective. Be mindful of telling the truth though – lying on your resume may get you an interview but it will come back to haunt you at some point.

When using an online job board, it’s sometimes better to stick to a few sites that are specific to your needs rather than posting to several. CareerPharm is a great site for positions in health-system pharmacy. By sticking with a niche board you will not be bombarded with recruiters and employers contacting you with jobs you’re not interested in.

To generate momentum, make sure you proactively search for jobs even after you’ve posted your resume. New jobs are posted almost daily and you don’t want to miss opportunities. On CareerPharm you can set a Search Alert and receive email notifications when jobs that meet your interest are posted. You may want to visit the site with regularity as well to update your resume and search alerts, or to find advice in the Career Tools section.

Finally, when searching for a job online your privacy is very important to protecting yourself from fraud. Make sure you use a secure, reputable site and limit the amount of personal information you include. You should also change your password on a regular basis. CareerPharm’s site gives you the option of “hiding” your contact information so anyone searching the site for fraudulent purposes will not be able to find you by name. Rather, an employer will only be able to contact you via secure email that is linked through CareerPharm.

Whatever you do during your job search, try to keep a good attitude. A recent survey conducted by the Guardian Life and Barkers revealed that job seekers with a positive outlook are more likely to find a job than those with a pessimistic view. So, stay motivated and positive. Good Luck!