There are many ways to find a job.
Most advertised jobs are found on job websites. You can also cold call, look around your local area, network with people you know, or go through an employment agency. Do some research and check prospective employers’ websites to see if any job vacancies are listed or to find their job application process.
Using a combination of these approaches is a good way to increase your chances of finding a job.
How to find a job online
Job search websites are the most popular places for job vacancies to be advertised.
They’re easy to use and most of them follow the same process:
- enter the name of a job or skill in the search field
- choose the location you want to work in
- view the job listings displayed.
Job websites to get you started
This isn’t a complete list of all job search websites, just some of the most popular. If you want to find more, you can do an online search for ‘job search websites’.
Seek
One of the largest jobs websites in Australia.
CareerOne
CareerOne is another popular Australian job search website.
Jora
Features vacancies sourced from job sites all across Australia.
Indeed
Indeed pulls together job listings from lots of different online sources.
Workforce Australia
Workforce Australia is the Australian Government’s employment website. You can use it to search for jobs and to explore training opportunities to help boost your career.
CareersVic
Focuses on government job vacancies in the state of Victoria.
LinkedIn
LinkedIn is a professional networking website that lets you create a profile. You can use the ‘jobs’ section to look for work and network with employers.
How to use job search websites
If you’re unsure what kind of job you’re looking for, you can use search terms like ‘jobs for teenagers’ or ‘no experience jobs’.
You can also narrow down the number of results displayed by being more specific about the type of work you want. For example, you can search for only part-time or casual jobs.
Here are some other tips for using job search websites:
- Use different job search websites. This increases your chances of finding the right job for you.
- Use a few different search terms or keywords. For example, if you’re looking for a job in a cafe, try ‘waitress’, ‘waiter’, ‘wait staff’, ‘floor staff’ and ‘food service’.
- Note keywords used in the jobs ads you like and then use them in your searches. For example, you might notice the words ‘warehouse’ and ‘inventory’ and then start using the same kinds of words.
- Set up job alerts. You can get the website to email you with new relevant job vacancies.
- Apply as soon as you can. Most employers will start interviewing soon after advertising the job.
Create an online profile
Lots of job search websites let you create a profile. This usually includes a photo of you, your resume, the industry you want to work in, and references from previous employers.
It helps to create a profile because some employers look through them to find people who match their needs.
You could also create a profile on a professional networking website, like LinkedIn.
Visit company websites
Companies sometimes list job vacancies on their websites before advertising them on others. Some companies only list vacancies on their websites.
If there's a company or organisation where you want to work, check if they have a job vacancies page on their website.
If no jobs are listed, you could still use the company website to find out their contact details and approach them with a cold call.
How to use an employment agency
Employment agencies are there to help you find work. They help employers find staff and staff find employers.
To find an employment agency, search online using the keywords ‘employment agencies’ and the industry, location, or kind of work you're looking for.
Sometimes job ads are placed on job search websites by employment agencies - they tend to be marked with the agency’s name.
If you’re interested in the vacancy you can go to the agency’s website to find out more about it. While you’re there you can search through their other job listings.
Registering with an employment agency
Once you’ve found an employment agency you'd like to use, you can apply for their jobs by filling in an online form and uploading your resume. The agency may then ask you to come in for an interview.
You should always approach employment agencies with the same professionalism and care as an employer.
If you’re successfully placed in a role you’ll be asked to sign a contract with the agency.
Employment agencies and work rights
When you work for an employment agency, you have the same entitlements as everyone else who does that job.
This means you should get the same pay and conditions that a person employed directly by the employer would get for the same job.
If you have concerns about your pay or conditions, discuss them with your employment agency.
If you need help with an employment agency or an employer, you can contact the Fair Work Ombudsman on 13 13 94.
To find more about working with an employment agency and labour hire, visit our employment contracts page.
