...the Web's Best Employment Resources

In general, the best uses of newsgroups are to find posted job openings, identify job opportunities, and/or view discussions about a particular subject (like your industry or your profession).

Be very cautious about posting your resume in a newsgroup, even a newsgroup specifically for that purpose.

When it comes to posting your resume in a newsgroup, the common sense that you use every day applies to the Internet as well. Newsgroups are open to everyone, including your boss or a co-worker (if you are currently employed), to see and read. Should your resume be posted in a newsgroup, they may see it.

If you feel that you MUST post your resume on a newsgroup, at a minimum protect your contact information (name, address, phone number, and your "real" e-mail address). Get one of the free e-mail accounts (e.g. Yahoo mail, Hotmail, etc.) and use THAT address as the contact information. Yes, you will, as a consequence, be somewhat more difficult to reach. But, only a VERY little more difficult to reach! Any minor delay or inconvenience will be offset by protecting your privacy. You must be sure to check that new e-mail account regularly to see what interest is generated by your resume!

Marketing Yourself on a Newsgroup

Search through newsgroup listings to find groups focused on your industry or profession. There may not be jobs posted, but you can identify contacts and companies (as potential employers) which may prove just as useful. Observe the postings to the newsgroups for a while (called "lurking") to see how people handle themselves and what is (and is NOT) acceptable. Then, as appropriate, add your relevant comments, demonstrating your expertise in the area, your professionalism, and your maturity.

The Links

• CyberFiber NewsGroups
• GoogleGroups
• Yahoo Groups - not based on the traditional newsgroups, but very useful.