Tips for finding a job online

There are many different ways to look for job opportunities online

Written by spunout

Factsheet

Fact checked by experts and reviewed by young people.

tips-for-finding-a-job-online-thumbanail

One of the most common ways to find a job is online. Job sites and social media are great ways to reach prospective employers and find work that you’re interested in.

How to search for work online

If you are looking for a job opportunity, here are some ways you can find and apply for roles online.

Start with major jobs websites

Websites like Jobs.ie, JobsIreland, Indeed.ie and Jobbio.ie are some of the first places you can look if you’re looking for a job. You can search by the kind of work you’re interested in and geographical location, and it will present you with options that fit your criteria. You can also subscribe to their newsletters to receive job updates daily.

Set up a LinkedIn profile

LinkedIn can be a useful way to connect with potential employers. Job opportunities are listed daily and the site offers a great opportunity to review job specifications, network and start planning your applications.

A basic profile is free to set up. If you’re interested in learning more about LinkedIn and how it can help you in your job search, read our guide to LinkedIn.

While LinkedIn is one of the best social media websites for job seekers, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook can also be good places to find jobs. If you are interested in working with a particular company, it is a good idea to follow them on social media as they are likely to post about job opportunities when they arise.

If you are using Twitter to explore job opportunities, it can be especially useful to search the #jobfairy hashtag. Many employers use this when posting about job opportunities. Facebook groups can sometimes be helpful if you are looking for a job in a particular industry. These pages may also advertise internships, work experience and job seeking tips, depending on the group rules.

Virtual graduate fairs are accessible to all and allow real opportunities to speak with employers who are or soon will be recruiting. You can use the fairs to gain an idea of potential opportunities and companies offering employment or graduate schemes. Take time to listen to what different companies are looking for in applicants and if you are unsure of anything, it is a good idea to ask questions.

Visit websites specific to your area of interest

Some websites will have job listings for specific fields of work that may not be listed on mainstream websites. For example, if you are interested in environmental jobs, you can visit greenjobs.ie.

Check out graduate programmes

Graduate programmes are structured, paid employment programmes run mainly by large companies. They give graduates that chance to learn and further develop the key skills required to work in that particular organisation. ALDI, LIDL, KERRY Group, Vodafone, Jameson, KPMG, Irish Rail and ESB are some of the many companies that run graduate programmes. You can find more details about what each programme involves and how to apply by visiting the company website.

Find support and opportunities at college

Many colleges and universities offer free career services. These services can include CV clinics, interview practice sessions, employment workshops, career guidance and annual career fairs where you can connect with employers and learn about current job opportunities. To find out more about the career services available to you, visit the college/university website or speak with a representative of the Student’s Union.

As part of their career service, your college/university will likely have job postings on a section of their website. You might also find details about internships, apprenticeships, graduate schemes and summer work experience on this platform.

Research opportunities with specific companies

If there is a particular company that you’re interested in working for, it is worth visiting their website to see whether they’re advertising any vacancies. If they are not currently hiring, check back in again regularly. An opportunity could arise at any time. Businesses in your local area may also list jobs in the local newspaper or on websites like gumtree.ie. However, you don’t have to limit yourself to companies in your area. With the increase in remote opportunities, it is possible to find jobs and internships that you can do from home.

Google yourself

It can be a good idea to Google yourself to see what photos and information show up. If there is anything on your social media you wouldn’t want a potential employer to see, make sure to keep your social media accounts set to private.

Need more information?

We are here to answer your questions and talk through your options. Our online chat service is for 16 to 25 year olds and is available Monday to Friday, 4pm to 8pm. Chat to us now about your situation.