by Philip Lop

Created on: February 26, 2012   Last Updated: February 27, 2012

The Internet is a vast resource for job seekers and has become one of the primary sources for new roles. With many recruitment agencies working predominantly through a website, job seekers would be extremely unwise to ignore the Internet but that doesn't mean that going online makes finding a job any easier. Indeed, some job seekers may be blissfully unaware that their online recruitment search could be damaging their career prospects.

So what are some of the biggest mistakes that job seekers are making online?

Ignoring or failing to understand social media

Social networking sites like Facebook and LinkedIn have become one of the most exciting new ways for job seekers to find work. Failing to use social media, or misunderstanding the most effective ways to use sites like LinkedIn, is a major mistake made by job hunters. LinkedIn is the world's largest professional social networking site but is still treated by many as nothing more than a resume resource. Many users remain inactive on LinkedIn once they have posted a copy of their resume, and then wonder why nothing happens. The CBS News website highlights the issue suggesting that you should “regularly identify and reach out to potential contacts” and “consistently review the “People You May Know” section to identify additional connections.”

Inconsistent online brand

Your online presence is part of your personal brand and must be impressive and consistent. That means that wherever you appear online, potential clients or employers must see the same sort of thing. Your Facebook page, Twitter account, website and blog must be consistent and, where possible, connected. Using your Twitter profile to rant about things, while expecting people to be impressed by your LinkedIn page probably isn't going to work. Remember that you are just one person – you cannot exist via different online persona if you expect to be taken seriously.

Inappropriate avatar or imagery

A picture of you on a website, blog or Facebook page is more important than you may at first believe. This is part of your online brand. It is one of the first things that a recruiter will see. It should therefore be recent, of good quality and appropriate. That picture of you on holiday, wearing Mickey Mouse ears may have seemed funny at the time, but it's not what a recruiter wants to see.

Not being involved in your target industry or market

If you want to secure the right kind of roles, then you need to develop expertise

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