If you're starting an online job hunt, reviews suggest using more than one site and remembering that job sites are just one tool in your search. Many reviews recommend posting a resume at a large site like Monster.com or CareerBuilder.com, as well as at social/professional networking sites and smaller niche sites.

To find a site that specializes in your field or industry, consult RileyGuide.com or JobBoardReviews.com.

Experts suggest keeping the following in mind when searching for a job online:

  • Post your resume on several sites and let the job come to you. Employers and recruiters can review your profile and contact you directly. Most reviewers find this to be more effective than applying to specific jobs online. It also works better for high-demand jobs in tech, business and health care.
  • Use social networking sites to create and leverage a professional network and establish a presence online. Experts say employers increasingly rely on sites like Facebook to learn more about potential employees. And networking continues to be the most effective way to find a job, so use the professional network you establish on sites like LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.  
  • Use the career advice on a site to optimize your potential or explore a new field. Most sites have some guidance features, including salary surveys and personality or skills tests. On larger sites, you will also find resume help, interviewing pointers, salary information and relocation advice.
  • Choose a site with privacy features to ensure that your resume doesn't fall into the wrong hands. It may seem unlikely, but we found plenty of postings from unfortunate job seekers whose resumes were spotted online by their current employers. More importantly, with the onslaught of spam and identity theft, more websites are implementing strategies to keep your personal information out of the wrong hands.

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