The explosive growth of the Internet in the 1990’s has radically altered how people search for jobs. In terms of cost, speed, and coverage area both employers and job seekers have found that the Internet offers numerous advantages over printed publications. With the Internet, job seekers can identify international opportunities, contact the appropriate person and even send resumes without leaving their home - all for far less than the cost of an international phone call.

Employers have been quick to adopt the Internet as an essential recruiting tool. Detailed job announcements can be posted in minutes on the company’s web site, reach a potential audience of over 40 million Internet users, and cost practically nothing. By comparison, the time required to post an ad in a newspaper or magazine can range from days to weeks; the ads are limited to the circulation area of the publication; and the cost can run to several hundred dollars.

Another advantage for the employer is that Internet users tend to come from a select group. In general, they are well educated, computer literate, and innovative enough to be early adopters of the Internet as a means of communication. And that’s exactly the type of employees they’re looking for - well educated, computer literate, and innovative. Many employers look at the Internet as a "prescreening" tool.

Today there are literally thousands of new job listings posted each week in various places on the Internet. Many of the sites on the World Wide Web (WWW) allow users to search for jobs based on geographic region and/or job type. Once a suitable job opening is found, it is often possible to apply for the job on-the-spot by submitting an electronic version of your resume.

In addition to sites which list job openings, there are numerous sites where your resume can be posted for employers to review. Employers can search these sites by keyword to find candidates with the right qualifications. Often these sites are free, sometimes there is a small charge.

A final advantage for the job seeker is the ability to network with colleagues in their field through the use of email, discussion lists, and newsgroups. Smart job hunters know that networking is one the best ways to find out about job openings - often before they are advertised.

Job hunting on the Internet is a win-win situation for both employers and job hunters and therefore will continue to grow rapidly. It should be a vital part of your international job search strategy. For more information on how to use the Internet and the GO Associates Web site for your job search please click below.