Top 10 Job Search Sites [Pros, Cons and Tips]
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A new job search needn’t be overwhelming — the right combination of tools can help streamline your search. You’ll find a list of the 10 best job search sites and additional tools like a resume builder, free resume samples and specialized job boards to help you find the job you want.
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Top 10 Job Search Sites
These top search engines can help streamline your job search, saving time by tailoring your applications and maximizing your efforts. We picked these top performers based on features such as the number of opportunities, newest openings, ease of use, and search filters to narrow the number of applications you submit effectively.
1. Indeed
Indeed is one of the biggest, most well-known online job search websites for good reason. This site pulls millions of new job postings daily to help you find the latest opportunities.
Pros
1. Millions of job listings you can search without an account sign-up.
2. Search filters help you tailor location, experience level, pay, job type, date posted and more.
3. Find company reviews to help research the company culture and satisfaction rate before you apply.
4. A salary comparison tool helps you estimate a good starting wage.
Cons
1. The biggest online job board means higher competition per job.
2. It is limited to job postings and company reviews.
3. No networking opportunities.
2. ZipRecruiter
ZipRecruiter charges employers to offer free, up-to-date job openings. Search available positions by job title, industry, trending employers or via customized searches.
Pros
1. Create and save unique searches based on experience, location or job types.
2. Questionnaire gives you customized job listings based on your criteria, with free sign-up.
3. An extensive network of employers paying for promotion, as needed, giving you up-to-date openings.
Cons
1. Access to job opening search requires account sign-up.
2. The price point for employers to list their info can limit smaller companies from listing.
3. Monster
Monster is one of the first job search websites and still hosts the largest number of advertised job opportunities.
Pros
1. Choose between pre-programmed, popular job searches or create and save custom job searches based on your interests.
2. Upload a generalized resume to apply to job openings within the site quickly.
3. The site includes additional resources like salary comparison, career advice and resume-writing advice.
Cons
1. As one of the largest online job search sites, there are more candidates per job.
2. Lack of networking features makes it difficult to interact with current employees about staff satisfaction.
3. The older interface could be more user-friendly.
4. LinkedIn
LinkedIn prioritizes professional networking and career advice over socializing. Visit our Resume Builder to draft a universal first draft.
Pros
1. Job openings include links to the company profile page, where you can read about recent projects and network with staff.
2. Uploading a general resume unlocks EasyApply, so you can quickly apply for jobs.
3. Create and save searches based on your professional interests and job requirements.
Cons
1. Requires a profile to make the most of the site features.
2. The EasyApply option lacks a customization feature to tailor your resume, making it harder to pass application tracking systems (ATS).
3. Job recommendations rely on your profile, meaning you have to update your profile regularly.
5. CareerBuilder
CareerBuilder is another legacy board that ranks on the best job search sites. Founded in the ‘90s, they still promote millions of openings a year.
Pros
1. Set up job searchers and alerts with an account based on your job-seeking needs.
2. Brush up on career advice and resume writing tips from seasoned professionals.
3. Upload a general resume to access Quick Apply, making it easy to apply on the spot.
Cons
1. Creating saved searches and alerts requires an account setup.
2. Quick Apply doesn’t allow you to tailor your resume, making it harder to pass applicant tracking systems.
3. The site relies on ads to fund its service, cluttering your experience.
6. FlexJobs
FlexJobs has over 15 years of experience sourcing remote-first jobs and opportunities.
Pros
1. Specializes in remote and hybrid job openings, freeing you from location-limited opportunities.
2. Screens and verifies job listings to create a scam-free job board.
3. Focus on remote-based jobs in the country makes it one of the best job search websites in the U.S.
Cons
1. It uses a subscription model to power its job verification and skill assessment services.
2. The site prioritizes mid- and senior-level roles. There are fewer entry-level jobs listed.
7. SimplyHired
SimplyHired offers one of the largest job listings of any job search site, allowing you to search for more than 6 million jobs in almost 1,000 occupations.
Pros
1. Pulls job openings from across the web. The site features search filter options to tailor your search.
2. Features company reviews and salary estimates to help you make an informed decision.
3. It includes an Apply Now feature, which relies on an uploaded resume to quickly apply to jobs within the site.
Cons
1. Requires account activation to unlock all features, including the Apply Now feature.
2. Some users have reported issues with their search alerts or lack of alerts, though this is rare.
8. Snagajob
Snagajob is an easy-to-use job board specializing in hourly gigs, making it one of the best job search sites for entry-level job seekers.
Pros
1. The site features a search engine with filters based on experience level, location, industry and more.
2. The site includes a questionnaire and professional profile page that acts like your resume.
3. Includes a career advice blog and salary calculator to help make the most of your application and interview.
Cons
1. Creating a detailed profile takes time and effort, especially when it acts like a replacement resume.
2. Onsite application requires filling out additional details for each job opening.
3. Only offers part-time and hourly jobs.
9. CareerOneStop
CareerOneStop is a government-sponsored website and the best job search site for career assessment tools or access to local resources like in-state job fairs and employment centers.
Pros
1. A simple job search tool with job keywords and location filters to narrow your search.
2. Access professional training and education resources or find local help and employment services.
3. Includes resources and job searches for niche job seekers like 55+, military veterans, non-English speakers and employees with criminal convictions.
Cons
1. Not as popular as other job search engines, so you’ll find fewer job listings.
2. The search feature is limited and doesn’t let you tailor or save your search.
3. The outdated interface isn’t very user-friendly.
10. AARP
The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) features a simple job search for experienced job seekers.
Pros
1. Job search tool is tailored to individuals aged 50 and older by focusing on age-friendly employers and opportunities.
2. The site includes resources like resume tips and job search advice.
Cons
1. Job search is minimal since this isn’t AARP’s primary service.
2. The primary focus is on age-friendly openings, meaning competition for these sparse jobs.
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10 Specialized Job Boards
The previously mentioned sites are the best job search sites for most job seekers. But you can also use specialized job sites like the following to narrow your search based on your needs. The following sites prioritize student-friendly, remote or industry-specific jobs.
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Make the Most of These Job Boards
1Create an exclusive job search email address:
Create a dedicated job search email address to sign up for these sites so that you never miss an alert from your saved searches or follow-up responses from your applications. You should use this email to handle all your responses and applications to avoid missing important messages between personal emails. Use a professional handle like your full name.
2Create saved searches and alerts:
Use the saved search feature on most online job search sites to get relevant alerts. The tailored list of job openings helps you focus your energy on the jobs you’re most qualified for.
3Tailor your resume to each job:
Most employers use ATS to rank and prioritize their candidates. Use an ATS-friendly template and resume-writing advice to improve your interview odds.
4Act quickly:
Employers have an immediate need for most openings — acting quickly can help you get your application in before hiring managers are overwhelmed by applicants or meet a similarly qualified job seeker.
5Use other resources:
Employers are legally required to post their openings but may prefer internal or referred candidates. Job seeking is a full-time job — use a combination of networking sites, professional memberships, and these job search sites to find jobs.
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Write a Job Board-Friendly Resume
These best job search sites might help you find opportunities, but you can’t impress employers without a persuasive resume. Our Resume Builder helps you write a great resume with:
Best Job Search FAQ
What are the best job search engines for students?
We previously mentioned Chegg Internships and Handshake, but there are additional job search sites tailored to students and recent graduates. Online job search tools include:
What are the most effective job search methods?
- Networking: Leveraging platforms like LinkedIn, attending industry events or conferences and setting up informational interviews are powerful ways to expand your network.
- Learn how to describe yourself: Learn how to answer the common “tell me about yourself” question on paper and in person.
- Write a short, informative resume: Learn how to write and customize a one-page resume so you can prioritize relevant experience and accomplishments instead of your most impressive qualifications.
What are the three R’s of job searching?
- Research: Use a combination of job search sites, company landing pages, professional advice articles and online networking sites to learn about a job’s needs and expectations.
- Resume: Write an informative, attention-grabbing resume with a strong layout that prioritizes the needs of the jobs.
- Relationships: Learn how to build and maintain professional relationships that can influence and support your job searches in the future. Learn how to pitch yourself.
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[10 Top Job Search Sites (Pros and Cons)]
Last edited by: Amaury Gonzalez - June 13, 2024
Gabriela Barcenas
CPRW, Content Writer IIGabriela is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and career adviser. With 10 years of digital media experience and five years of resume writing expertise, her publication history includes fashion, education, travel, social justice, equitable design and career advice.