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I am concerned
about my privacy; should I avoid using online job boards?
SaiCareers.com
Several experts blatantly
discourage the use of
online job boards, often citing privacy concerns
or a low success rate. While I am a very strong proponent of using a
portfolio of
job search strategies, I don’t see any reason to leave
out
online job boards. My response to privacy and other issues would
be as follows:
Privacy
The argument against the use of
job boards is valid if viewed in light
of privacy and security issues, and one certainly needs to be [very]
careful, but several
online job boards have introduced tools that
allow job seekers to block name, contact information, and
also information identifying employers. Privacy concerns
could be eased significantly if these tools are used in addition to
simple precautions like using an anonymous e-mail address, protecting
sensitive information (such as social security numbers, etc.), and
researching the prospective employer’s background thoroughly.
Being careful is always the best way to protect one’s privacy
online -- job
boards or otherwise. More information about protecting
one’s privacy could be found on the individual
job boards.
Success statistics
I have read statistics that point to a 4-8% success rate with
online job boards. Where did the numbers come from? What was the sample size?
Were they studying proficient Internet users or those who haven’t
joined the Internet revolution? What professions were studied? What
geographic locations were included? Were the job seekers’ interests
local or national? … The point I am trying to make here is that
results will fluctuate due to differences in sample quality and
research methodology. If you ask my clients, over 30-40% have found
jobs through popular online job boards. [It could be that a vast
majority of my clients are Web savvy and turn to the Web for almost
all their needs.]
In conclusion
Employers find it relatively easy to research and recruit candidates
online and as newer online tools continue to surface, employers are
more likely to turn to the Web for their recruiting needs (it costs a
fraction as compared to traditional
recruitment strategies). Viewed in
this light,
online job boards will continue to grow in importance and
would be a valuable addition to other
job search strategies.
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I am concerned about my privacy; should I
avoid using online job boards?
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Networking
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