People often ask what are the best places to search online for jobs. It can be so overwhelming and so often there’s not enough information about the actual fit for your personality or values.
So I’m collecting some resources here that will help you go deeper, especially for doing mission-driven work.
On this page:
- Encouragement for the job search struggle
- Recommended job search websites, for more meaning
- Is networking the way to get a job?
- What about choosing the right career direction? And knowing what you have to offer.
A Little Encouragement While in the Job Search
It’s so easy to get discouraged, especially after another rejection or not even hearing back. Argh. You might start questioning what you have to offer.
The image here has a reminder that has helped me at times.
If you are unsure of what strengths you have, or what do you even want, check out the section at the end of this page.
Job Search Websites for Meaningful Work
- ClimateBase
Jobs at organizations working to address climate concerns. - Remote Work and Flex Work Search and Resources
I’ve compiled more websites via this link that help you find legit remote work, flex jobs, or gigs. - Idealist.org
Lists jobs, internships and other opportunities for making a difference. - Workforgood.org
“Help purpose-driven organizations and talented professionals connect.” Easy job alerts by email. - B Work
Find jobs at purpose-driven companies certified as B corps. (B is for social and environmental benefit.) - “The 7 Top Websites for Nonprofit Jobs”
- If you are looking within a particular field such as academia, or biotech, do a search for “jobs in ______” (insert the field in the blank) to find niche websites where you might find specific job postings, such as HigherEdJobs.com. (Google does a good job of finding most of the job listings online, and you can get alerts for new postings.)
- PCDN Social Change Careers – job board
They also share lots more job boards for social change careers. - Indeed
You’re probably familiar with this one because it’s so popular. The features are quite good, and there’s a lot of listings. Include it in your list but not as the only place you look.
Note: There are far more than these and you have to find the places that feel right for you. I hope these will be a good starting place. Google offers free instructions for online job search.
Is Networking the Way To Get a Job?
Well, it certainly helps, a LOT. Just focusing on job postings won’t get you nearly as many options. This is partly because sometimes companies will create a job when they meet someone that will help their company.
Here are a few ideas to help:
- Can You Define Networking? It’s Not What You Think.
- Explorers Group – my small group community for people engaged in career exploration.
Wait, Do You Even Know What Career You Want? Or What You Have to Offer?
If you don’t have at least some kind of “work wish list” and career direction ideas you’re passionate about, then that lack of clarity could be what’s in the way of finding a good fit. Your search will stay scattered, and interviewers can tell.
You need to start with knowing you before you can find the right match for you.
These might help:
- What If You Don’t Know What You Want?
- How To Find Your Right Career Path: Myths and Truths
- Career Clarity Course
I explain a bit more in this video:
