How can you boost your job search with online tools?

I know how overwhelming job searching can be; I've been there. Let's make it easier with a couple of friendly tips. First, make sure your LinkedIn title reflects what you truly want. It helps recruiters find you through searches. Use professional titles, and don't keyword stuff. Next, do an occasional incognito Google search on yourself. Remove any unprofessional photos of you from your old facebook posts, and clean up your twitter. Your online image is as important as your professional image.

Here's a simple sports analogy. Your LinkedIn Profile (and resumé for that matter) are career highlights--don't add every play you were ever on the field for. "Utility Players" are great, but now's the time to pick a position/job and be the best at that position. Focus on what you want to do, align your photo, Headline, About & Experiences sections to this.

Here's the deal. SEO isn't just for your website; it's crucial for your LinkedIn too. Rule 1: Keywords matter. Like, a lot. Start with the job title you're eyeing. If you want to be a "VP of Marketing," that better be front and center. And no fluff. Cut the "experienced" and "detail-oriented" stuff. It's just white noise. Rule 2: Your profile should read well to humans too, not just algorithms. Add some sizzle—something that showcases your unique value. Got metrics? Flash 'em. It’s your stage, own it. Rule 3: Update often. The game changes, you change, and your headline should reflect that. At least once a year, give it a facelift.

And the BIG companies have some of the best looking jobs--and the most applicants. Want to stand out? Start looking for local(ish) small- and medium-sized companies where you may be able to speak with decision makers or better yet, have a role create for you. This take a lot of selling on your part, but when done right, you control your destiny.

Job boards and aggregators like Indeed or Google Jobs can be real lifesavers when you're on the job hunt, but knowing how to use them is key. Think of them like a treasure map to your next opportunity. What I usually do is focus on jobs posted in the last 24 hours first, then move to 3 days and 7 days. Anything older? I skip it. Competition is fierce, and you don't want to waste time on a crowded field. Don't forget to set up job alerts on these sites too – it's like having a friend who's always on the lookout for cool jobs that suit you.

One peace of advice for senior leaders: don't use job boards. It's a waste of time. It's frustrating ... you will get only an answer in 30% of the cases. Your profile will be reviewed by very junior talent acquisition associates who hardly understand your accomplishments. Focus on networking, building relationships with headhunters and LinkedIn optimization instead.

Being out of work isn't just about the search; it's a chance to grow and rediscover what makes you tick. Ever wanted to attend a virtual conference or dive into a workshop? Now's the time! Reconnect with passions, learn something new, and meet people along the way. You never know when a casual chat at a coffee shop or an online discussion might lead to something fantastic. Think of this time as a personal voyage to figure out where you want to sail next. Opportunities are often found in the most unexpected places.

Networking and engaging is one of the easiest ways to get noticed online. The key? Relatability and consistency. Jump into conversations that you have expertise and let people get to know you. When you're comfortable, start sharing your own experiences and let others engage with YOUR posts. If you're good, people will begin reaching out to YOU!

A portfolio of work is a great way to lead people to your areas of expertise. Like LinkedIn's Feature Section, YOU can show people what you want them to see right away. If you have multiple projects you've lead or articles of expertise, showcase them.

Yes, make sure that if your field portfolio is a must-make it, this applies to a lot of roles (developers, designers, social media managers, copy-writers, etc.). And if you want to write a blog do it, but do it for yourself not for others first.

Testing technology you have never worked with is important, as well as checking your camera and background as well if your microphone works and making sure to add light if needed. Online is normal, just be prepared, always check if you received invitation to interview and please accept it.

While doing all of the above is a great way to advance your job search, you'll have to take it off line and correspond with your targeted people. The nice thing about online networking and engagement is that you can reach out to thousands of people, but it's a fraction of the people you connect with who will make a difference in your job search.