The Internet is a very useful tool for job seekers as it is a great source of information. Also, taking into account of a more wired world, getting online has never been easier. People can cost-effectively get Internet access in public libraries at broadband speeds. But with the fear of information overload, many job seekers do not fully utilize the many advantages of the Internet. This is never a good development.

Here are some tips for job seekers:

Viewing Corporate Websites

Before going for an interview, it is recommended to view the company’s corporate mission statement and goals. This information is readily provided in the company’s corporate website and should also be free of charge.

Industry Information

If you are interested in understanding the employment viability of a particular industry, you can use the search engine to get online information. You will be instantly directed to online newsletters (normally at no charge) and be able to see if you have the necessary skills to achieve career advancement.

E-learning

Many job seekers are not fully harnessing the power of e-learning to boost their skills. They give the reason that e-learning may not be fully recognized by Singapore employers as a job requirement. This view is erroneous. The attractive proposition of e-learning is that your study content is easily updated to match the relevance of your job industry. The onus is on you to choose the most relevant e-learning programme for your job-search needs. Furthermore, during your interview, you should articulate to the interviewer about how you are able to apply your knowledge from the e-learning programme to the benefit of the organization.

Online Forum

By being a member of a specific industry’s online forum, you are able to learn more about the nature and requirements of the industry. You are also able to post questions about the industry and should get a quick reply from the rest of the online members. Furthermore, if you get employed, you have a “ready-made” source of contacts and professional networks. This is vital for your career advancement.

Create Your Personal Website

The benefits of having your own personal website is obvious. It is like having an online resume that never gets out of date. You are also able to load much more information and provide relevant links for your viewers. You can also provide an online video about yourself and even feature your job referees! All this translates into job interviewers getting a better picture of how your strengths can be put to the best use in their company.

Read HR Articles

The Internet can also host HR articles that will help you in your job-search. You are able to read about job-search tips by workplace experts. There are also some HR websites that provide analyzing tips for difficult interview questions. All this means that your job search will be much easier.

Colin Ong is the Managing Director of MR=MC Consulting, which specializes in Corporate Training, New Technology Implementation and E-publishing. Colin has been an invited guest on Newsradio 938Live, Malaysia’s TV3 and his business articles have been published in many business magazines and HR portals.

He is on a panel of Mentors that was set up by National University of Singapore (NUS) Business school to guide StartUps and is also the Singapore/Indonesia Area Representative of the World Future Society.