Conducting Online Job Searches Without Spilling Too Many Beans

If you've conducted online job searches, you know that as you apply to companies, you may have to enter a ton of personal information to complete the application. For some, this process is no big deal. However, others feel it's too invasive and potentially puts them at risk of identity theft.

If you are a part of the club that feels incredibly uncomfortable giving out your personal information over the Internet, don't let it get you down. There are a few ways that you can conduct your online job search without spilling too many beans. Let's look at what they are:

Exclude as Many Personal Details on Your Resume as Possible

As you know, many online job searches require that you submit your resume electronically so that employers can simply sort through them. As you also know, your resume probably lists your home address and phone number, along with email address and any other personal details you wish to disclose. While disclosing this information makes you easier to contact, posting it on a website can leave you pretty vulnerable to predators of all kinds.

A way to get around the feeling that you're leaving too many personal details out there for "whoever" on the other side of the computer, you can offer temporary contact information. For instance, you can rent and list a P.O. Box just during the time of your search. Also, you can get a temporary cell phone number and email address, both dedicated to the search. By listing this temporary information on your resume - or submitting it with an application - you can increase your privacy and lower your risk of identity theft.

Submit Directly to Employer

It's not uncommon that as a part of your online job search, you sign up with job banks that allow you to post your resume on their site. Many job seekers take this route because of the benefits it offers, including allowing hiring managers and headhunters to locate you more easily.

The only problem with this type of job search is that it leaves your personal information just sitting out there for the world to see. For this reason, some experts suggest that instead of posting your resume on a job site that allows employers and headhunters to find you, you might consider searching for jobs on your own and applying to them directly. This can be done by contacting the company and asking if there is a way to email the hiring manager directly for the position. This way, you don't have to post your resume online - and you don't have to worry about entering personal details through online forms that get sent who-knows-where.

Take Advantage of Site Privacy Features

Lastly, if you're working through a large site like Monster.com, you can take advantage of privacy features that limit your exposure. By blocking contact information from the general search, you can make it possible for employers to reach you only through a confidential email address created on the site.

Since so many employers require electronic job application submissions, it's a good idea to figure out your submission options sooner than later. This way, you won't miss out on any great opportunities because you feel nervous about spilling too many beans.