Resume databases are essential to today's job search. From headhunters to company human resource departments, everyone is using resume databases to find qualified candidates to fill important job positions. One of the keys to having success with a resume database is to choose the right databases.

Monster.com

Monster.com is one of the best known resume databases on the Internet. It has been around the longest, and many employers still search resumes on this website to find new talent. The site also contains helpful hints as you build your resume to be published online.

CareerBuilder.com

Career Builder is probably my favorite of the resume databases. They provide great tools and help you keep track of where, when, and to whom you have submitted your resume. They also work to help you create a well-written, engaging resume by providing important checklists and tools. Additionally, they help you determine what type of salary you can reasonably expect based on your credentials and industry.

HotJobs.com

Hot Jobs is another popular site, though they really work primarily as a job site rather than a resume database website. You can keep up with your different resumes here as well details about jobs you have applied for. Although this is a good resource, it's not the best.

Local Websites

Most people overlook the possibility of local resume database websites. Some newspapers even provide a job search and resume database service for free. Be sure to look into what's available in your area. If you live in a big city, you will almost certainly be able to find a local site to help you find a job.

What NOT to Do

Before you post your resume online, you need to know what NOT to do. First of all, if you're in the U.S., you are not required to put down any personal information about your family, your race, or any disabilities. For now, keep those things to yourself.

Additionally, don't put down your salary history or expectations. I know there's a spot for that, but this can keep you from getting jobs for which you are qualified and that may have benefits that far outweigh the base salary provided by the company. Remember to leave off your references as well so that you can protect their privacy.

Finally, don't submit your resume to the same company more than once, even if you are using different websites. This shows that you are unorganized and careless, two traits that no company will look kindly upon. So keep a detailed list of the descriptions and titles of all jobs for which you apply. You may find that a company name isn't actually included, so the description will be key to determining whether or not you have previously applied for the job.

Get to Work

Now that you know about a few great resume databases and job search engines, it's time to get to work. You're ready to begin typing up your resume and polishing it. Be sure to let friends, family, colleagues, or a professional editor look over the resume before you submit it. You want it to be clear and free from mistakes when you post it online.

Amber Smith
http://careersandeducation.com/