How Job Search Has Changed

If you haven't job searched in a while, then you might be surprised to discover that the process is quite different from what it used to be. Newspaper ads for openings have been replaced with online listings, and a computer is more likely to conduct the initial scan of your résumé than a human being. Here is a roundup of how job hunting has changed over the last two decades.

THEN

• Newspaper ads were the main source of job listings

• Résumés were presented on paper and delivered by mail or in person

• An actual human being read your résumé

• If you applied for a job, you generally received a response

• One résumé was all you needed, listing all of your past jobs

• You had more control over your personal information

• Recruiters were around your age or older

• A lack of technology skills may not have been a drawback

• The job interview was fairly predictable

• There were limited sources of advice for job seekers

• Finding a job was more about what you knew and less about whom you knew

NOW

• Millions of job postings show up online every day

• Electronic applications — emailing résumés or submitting forms online — have become the norm

• Your résumé may get scanned electronically for keywords. Including the right keywords helps your résumé get noticed

• Due to the large volume of job applications, many employers won't acknowledge receiving your résumé. Don't take it personally. Keep networking to expand your contacts and job leads

• Develop multiple résumés based on different positions you're pursuing. List only the past 10 to 15 years of work experience. Focus on key skills and achievements

• Protecting your privacy is essential when applying for jobs online. Use only trusted sites with a clearly stated privacy policy

• Many recruiters will be younger than you. Know how to answer questions about working with younger colleagues and bosses. Show you're in step with current industry terminology

• Computer skills are important to most jobs and change quickly. Highlight your tech skills; get more training if you need it

• Count on getting not-too-subtle questions related to your age. Be prepared to give examples of achievements that demonstrate your ability to do the job for which you are applying

• The internet is chock-full of information for job seekers. But try not to let yourself get weighed down by information overload

• A successful job search includes networking. Sign up for a LinkedIn account and reconnect with former colleagues and friends. You'll be surprised how far-reaching your network can become. Also take advantage of network building through Facebook, Twitter and AARP's Life Reimagined