Internet is 'primary resource' for jobseekers

Most jobseekers use the web to look for and apply for jobs, a new survey has suggested.

A poll by Taleo revealed that 43% of job hunters will use the web in their search for new employment by joining business-networking sites and checking job boards.

Only 19% of respondents prefer to apply for a position through the post, while the rest of those surveyed (38%) use recruitment agencies and personal contacts to find new job openings.

Neil Hudspith, Senior Vice President for Taleo, stated that the recruitment market is changing.

He said: 'Online search and application techniques are now the most prevalent methods with both active and passive candidates, which suggests that candidates are proactively taking charge of their search for employment.'

According to those who used the internet to apply for a job, speed is the most attractive feature of using the method, as a quick response is more likely to be given.

Students were recently advised by Margaret Dane of the Association of Graduate Careers Advisory Services to apply for graduate positions early on in the final year of their degree.