The Pros and Cons of Using Craigslist to Find a Job
Are you in need of a new job? If so, you may find yourself looking at Craigslist.org. This is an online classified website where many hiring companies and managers post open jobs. You can use this website to find and apply for those jobs. But, what are the pros and cons of doing so?
The Pros of Using Craigslist to Find a Job
Craigslist.org is free to use. Not all job search websites are free. Some charge you a membership. They often claim they are “above all other search websites.” This may be true, but why pay a fee when you don’t need to? You shouldn’t. You can view and apply for jobs that you found listed on the classified website for free.
There are lots of jobs posted. Craigslist has a separate section for jobs. That section is divided into subcategories, like accounting and finance, marketing, general labor, and more. The section is broken down into over 30 categories based on job type. What does this mean for you as a job seeker? It means lots of chances to find a good, well-paying job.
It is easy to find jobs on Craigslist. To get started, select your location from the main page. You can then use the search box on the left-hand side of the page. Just change the default search settings to “jobs,” from “for sale.” You are then ready to search. Search either with the name of the position or the type of duties you would perform. Honestly, the only problem you will run into is if you want to search multiple areas at once, like if you want to work from home or relocate for the right pay. You can only search one location page at a time, unless you download a use a Craigslist scan and search tool.
The Cons of Using Craigslist to Find a Job
You don’t always get a lot of information upfront. Typical job search websites usually have set fields for employers or hiring mangers to fill in. This may include a job requirement section, common duties performed, and so forth. This is not how Craigslist works. Companies create their own listings, which means that they may forget to outline the pay or the job requirements. In these cases you can contact the hiring manager for more information or just take a chance and apply for the job.
There are some scams that target employment opportunities listed on Craigslist. Luckily, most of these scams focus on work-at-home opportunities and are easy to spot. Be cautious of any company who is willing to hire you without a job interview, a company that wants too much personal information, or a company that wants you to pay for your own training.