Job banks are websites where job seekers can search and apply for job openings online. They are sometimes called job boards.
Online job banks are a great place to start your search. To get started, take a look at several job banks. Try looking at larger ones that include jobs of all levels, occupations, and locations. Then look at some that specialize in certain kinds of jobs. You can search for "job bank" in any web browser.
What you can do on a job bank
Most job banks will give you a general introduction to using their site. Here are the common tasks you can do at most job banks:
-
Search and apply for job openings. There are thousands of online job banks. Most work in the same basic way. Employers pay to post job openings. Job seekers search the openings for free. They can register to learn more and apply for jobs. This should also be free of charge.
-
Post your resume. Sometimes you can post your resume without applying for a specific job. Then employers might still match you to an open position. Follow the specific instructions on each job bank site to post your resume.
-
Get a feel for the jobs and the pay. Job banks can be a good research tool. You can learn what skills employers are looking for. You can also learn what kind of pay to expect for different jobs.
What to avoid
-
You should not have to pay to search through job openings on a job bank. You should also be able to post your resume for free. However, you may have to register with a user name and password in order to use all the features of a job bank.
-
If it looks too good to be true, it probably is. Sometimes, job postings on online job banks are scams. They try to get you to pay up front or perform illegal activities. Beware of job postings that ask you for an "up-front" investment of money. Also be wary of offers that seem too good to be true. For instance, you can't really earn thousands of dollars for depositing checks from foreign countries. And it may be illegal to ship items from your home. Read more about job scams from Consumer.gov.
-
Never give personal information. A legitimate company won't ask you for certain personal details online. Be careful about giving your social security or national ID number online. Also be wary of giving a credit card number, bank account information, or similar details.