The following content is given by guest blogger Donna Tatum of Express Personnel

. The job market is still favorable for fresh college grads, according to a new report by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). Their survey showed that employers plan to hire 17.4% more recent college grads this year than last. On top of that, this is the fourth straight year of double-digit job growth expectations for new grads. Plus, Baby Boomers are beginning their mass exodus from the workforce, which is opening up jobs to newer workers.

That’s why now is a great time for new graduates to approach their job search with zeal, applying for jobs in a range of industries, locations and areas to discover all their options. Thanks to many innovations on the World Wide Web, this is possible. Traditional job searching techniques such as networking through parents, friends and acquaintances, securing internships and sending out résumés are still important. But, now graduates must tailor their job-search efforts to the demands of an urgent, online world as well. So, how can graduates and other job seekers use the Web wisely and not drown in a turbulent online job environment? Here are some ways you can make traditional job search techniques work in the online world.

Networking

Traditional networking techniques are still critical for job seekers, and having a personal connection with a company is usually your best bet for getting your foot in the door. But when conducting an online job search, it’s important to think about how you network online. First, realize it works both ways. You may be looking for jobs online, but employers are looking for candidates on the Web as well. In fact, NACE reported recently that 41% of employers occasionally search for candidates through Google or online networking sites such as Facebook.com or MySpace.com. A similar survey by ExccuNet, an online career networking site, found that 77% of executive recruiters used search engines to research candidates, and 35% eliminated a candidate because of what they found. For many new graduates, this should be sobering news.

Your online brand, reputation and image are just as vital these days as your résumé and cover letter. Often, images, profiles and Web content on social networking sites can be even more telling. That’s why experts suggest that before applying for jobs online, you should conduct a Google search on yourself and examine what social networking site profiles say about you. Typically, anyone can access this information. Even limiting restriction to groups or schools may not keep potential employers from seeing your profile, because they may be school alumni or group members.

The bottom line is, if there’s information online you don’t want potential employers to see and you have access to it, take it down. If you didn’t post the content, such as photos, quotes, etc., ask the person who did to take it down for you, especially if they didn’t have your consent to post it to begin with. If you have a common name or share a name with someone whose profile isn’t flattering, consider putting your first or middle initial on your résumé and creating Web content that uses this moniker so the hiring manager can find real information about you.

Editing your existing online persona is vital to surviving the online job search world. But there’s more you can do as well. Many professionals are joining online networking sites that focus on careers, such as LinkedIn.com, to help them establish a professional online image. Another great way to control your online persona is to begin a professional blog about the industry, field or niche you want to work in. This will show your passion, knowledge and initiative to potential employers, and it can help you go far in your career.

Job Search

When it comes to searching the net for jobs, there are many avenues to pursue. Instead of choosing one method, the best bet is to hit them all. Look at sites such as Monster.com and CareerBuilder.com, but also go to Web sites of companies and organizations in your target geographical locations and job boards specializing in your field or desired location. Don’t just trust one Web site to find all the available listings. Also, think outside the box with the terms you use to search for jobs. Simply searching for job postings with the title of your major limits the positions you will find. Using your skills, knowledge, certifications and abilities as search terms will greatly increase your online job search success. The job description – not just the job title – can be a great way to find good job leads.

Résumé

It’s important to consider your résumé format when applying for jobs online. Have both a polished, designed résumé available in a read-only format such as a PDF or locked Word document and a text-only format ready for you to cut and paste into online application forms. Also consider creating a Web site for your résumé so you can simply link to it. You can make your online résumé shine by focusing on using key terms that highlight skills, qualifications, and buzz-terms in your field. Look at the job posting to ensure that you phrase your experience in terms of the qualifications and skills the job requires.

Applying

When applying for a job via the Web, some sites want candidates to fill out online applications and job seeker profiles, while others require documents to be e-mailed. First, whatever you do, follow the instructions and requests of each job opening specifically. If they state they don’t want résumés faxed, don’t fax them. Failure to follow directions will be the first way applicants get their résumés tossed in the “no” pile. If you are e-mailing your application, include your cover letter as the body of the e-mail, and attach your résumé as a document. Make sure when using e-mail that you send it to the hiring manager listed, and use their name in the e-mail itself.

Follow Up

Follow up is the big differentiator for online job seekers. Experts agree that the No. 1 mistake most applicants make is failure to show initiative, eagerness and drive by following up after applying for a job. And in the online job realm, following up can be your way to stand out from the crowd. Research shows that an overwhelming majority of employers value follow up within 1-2 weeks of application. How you follow up is less important. You can consider calling the organization, e-mailing the person you sent the application to or sending a hard-copy of your résumé and cover letter in the mail, specifying that you wanted to verify their receipt of your information. However you follow up, it’s important to emphasize your eagerness about the position, clarify skills and qualifications, and ask if there are any questions or clarifications the employer needs. This proactive approach can truly set you apart in a sea of applicants.

It’s a great time for new graduates to start searching for jobs, and your employment possibilities are perhaps broader than ever before, thanks to online capabilities. Using these tips can help you navigate the online job search so you can find a great new job. Approach your job search with enthusiasm and persistence, and your dream career may be right around the corner.