ALT-5 How Effective is Monstercom in Finding Jobs
Although I had a very pleasant experience with Monster.com during the early stages of the site, I am less convinced that it would actually work in the present job market. Let's take a closer look at a few key points to consider when looking for that "perfect" job.
It was the famed motivational speaker Earl Nightingale that coined the phrase "Luck is the result of opportunity meeting preparedness". Finding that perfect job is a difficult task, but not impossible. If you do your research and take the necessary steps to improve your weaknesses, you can find that perfect job no matter what platform you use. Whether it be word of mouth, or walking into an employers building and leaving a resume.
First, you must decide which companies fit your skills and requirements. You have to remember that Monster.com is a networking tool that can be utilized to get your name out there in front of potential employers. If you are targeting a company that regularly advertises within Monster, you will have a much better chance getting your name noticed and your foot in the door. If you are targeting a company that has no ties with Monster, your chance of that company finding you on Monster are zip, zero and nada.
Second point to consider, do you want to work with a third party? Monster.com is full of headhunters and agents that can help get your resume in front of employers, but it will cost you, in dollars. They are more than willing to assist you in landing that perfect job and there is a slight chance they have a connection at the company that interests you. This could be a great direction to take, or it could be a disaster that will leave a bad taste in your mouth for years to come. Keep in mind that most employers do not like dealing with agents, including me. For my business I do not speak with agents nor headhunters.
Lastly, you must think about the type of job you are applying for. If you are looking for a job flippers burgers, you don't need Monster. Your best bet is the local paper or driving around town looking for help wanted signs in the windows. If you are looking for a more specialized position, Monster.com may be able to help. Once again, it depends on what companies you are targeting in your search.
Like everything else in life, the result is always dependent upon the amount of time and energy you put into it. I believe Monster.com can help you with your job search and you could get "lucky" with finding your dream job. I also believe Monster.com should only be one of your resources in your job search, as only around 5% of the open jobs are listed on Monster.
