The internet has made many things happen, both good and bad. Although keeping informed and in touch is now easier than even, the web has made personal privacy more difficult than ever to keep in tack. Getting a membership with any website involves having to give out some personal information, such as one’s name or general location, but searching for jobs online often requires much more. Because of this, it is important to do all that one can to safe-guard their identity.
For starters, those searching for jobs online should never sign up for websites that do not have a privacy policy posted. Although it is so easy to ignore legal information like this, it is in one’s best interest to read this policy. Don’t sign up for sites that do not list the amount of time a posted resume will remain in public view. Many companies frown down upon their workers’ resumes being passed around, due to the fact that this make it look like their employees are looking for new jobs. If a privacy statement doesn’t mention the amount of time that resumes will remain viewable then they can legally archive then for as long as they want, which can cause problems if one’s current employer stumbles upon it
For similar reason, it is important to only use sites that give their members the ability to delete the resumes they post. This also makes it easier to guarantee that the information circulating about one’s self is up to date. No one wants employers to be viewing a resume that is several years old, has typos, or is missing important work experience.
When searching for jobs online it may seem like a good idea to post a resume with as many sites as possible, but it isn’t. Since, many sites sell information to third parties it is best to stick to only one or two web pages with good privacy policies. Also, make sure that the sites chosen allow personal contact information to be hidden.
If a site does not have this option, then one can do so themselves by creating a new e-mail account to be used solely for the purpose of search for jobs online. This way the e-mail address can be deleted later on, if the user begins to receive spam, without losing important contact information.
Another good idea when searching for jobs online is to omit references contact information on posted resumes. This is only courteous since no one should have their personal number or address posted in a public forum without their permission.
Remember, some legitimate sites will require a user’s social security number, such as USAjobs.com and the personal hiring pages of many individual companies. Nevertheless, do not give such information unless aware of the site or company’s reputation. Also, keep in mind this maybe used to conduct a criminal background check on the site’s users.
