Job Search Tools Every Candidate Should Know About in 2025 (And How to Use Them)
We’ve been helping candidates navigate the job search journey for over a decade. Whether we have an active role for someone or not, we’re always here to support by refining resumes, profiles, and strategies to help them stand out. Over the years, we’ve realized that what comes naturally to us doesn’t always come easily to others—especially if you haven’t been a recruiter yourself.
So, if you’re currently looking for your next opportunity, we’ve put together a helpful guide, step-by-step, covering all the tools you can use to succeed. The power is in your hands, and we’re here to guide you.
Our goal is to empower you to be proactive—not just in your job search, but in making sure the right people see you. Recruiters are out there, actively searching for talent, and you need to ensure your profile catches their eye. By creating visibility, you’ll generate momentum: attracting opportunities and proactively applying to roles that match your experience, strengthening your overall search.
1. LinkedIn
Why it matters: LinkedIn is one of the most powerful platforms for job seekers. It’s not just about finding jobs; it’s where you network, showcase your skills, and build a professional identity. Recruiters search here daily for top talent, so it’s essential your profile stands out.
- Free Features: Profile creation, networking, job search, applying for jobs, endorsements, and recommendations.
- Paid Features: LinkedIn Premium offers added perks like InMail, profile insights, and LinkedIn Learning courses.
Step-by-step to use LinkedIn effectively
- Create a standout profile:
- Add a professional photo.
- Write a headline that clearly highlights your expertise.
- Craft an engaging summary that tells your story and explains what sets you apart.
- List your skills and get endorsements.
- Include your work experience, focusing on achievements and measurable outcomes.
TIP Watch the LinkedIn recording to help spark your imagination and help you personalize your own page.
LinkedIn Recording: Rock Your Profile (28 Min.)
[Recording] Rock Your Profile (linkedin.com)
- Build your network:
- Connect with colleagues, former classmates, and professionals in your industry.
- Personalize connection requests to stand out.
- Engage with content:
- Like, comment, and share posts to show your activity in your field.
- Post original content like articles, insights, or industry news to enhance your personal brand.
- Search and apply for jobs:
- Use LinkedIn’s job search feature to filter positions by industry, location, and experience level.
- Apply directly through LinkedIn or external company portals.
- Request recommendations:
- Ask former colleagues, managers, or clients for recommendations. These add credibility and boost your profile’s strength.
2. Indeed
Why it matters: Indeed, is one of the largest job boards, offering a wide range of listings across different industries. It allows you to upload your resume for easy applications and track your job search progress.
- Free Features: Job search, resume upload, job alerts, and company reviews.
- Paid Features: Sponsored job listings and resume visibility enhancements for employers.
Step-by-step to use Indeed effectively:
- Create your account and upload your resume: Keep it updated with your skills and relevant experience.
- Search for jobs: Use specific keywords or filter by job title, location, and industry. Utilize the “Advanced Search” option to narrow down your results.
- Set up job alerts: Receive notifications for new job postings matching your criteria.
- Apply directly: Apply to jobs directly on Indeed with your uploaded resume.
- Read company reviews: Before applying, check company reviews to get insights into their culture, pay, and benefits.
3. Glassdoor
Why it matters: Glassdoor provides transparency about companies through reviews, salary insights, and interview experiences. It’s a great resource to research potential employers and ensure you’re making the right choice.
- Free Features: Job listings, company reviews, salary data, and job applications.
- Paid Features: Glassdoor Premium for more in-depth company insights and resources.
Step-by-step to use Glassdoor effectively:
- Set up your profile: Upload your resume and provide details about your job preferences.
- Explore company reviews: Check out what employees are saying about potential employers to assess if they’re a good fit for you.
- Check salary data: Glassdoor offers salary insights to help you understand whether a role is offering competitive pay.
- Apply for jobs: Browse job listings and apply directly on the platform.
- Review interview feedback: Use insights from other candidates’ interviews to better prepare for your own.
4. ZipRecruiter
Why it matters: ZipRecruiter is an AI-powered job search platform that matches you with job opportunities based on your profile and preferences. It helps streamline your search by automatically sending your resume to multiple employers.
- Free Features: Job search, job alerts, applying to jobs.
- Paid Features: ZipRecruiter charges employers for job postings, but job seekers use it for free.
Step-by-step to use ZipRecruiter effectively:
- Create your account: Upload your resume and specify your job preferences to help ZipRecruiter match you with the right roles.
- Set job alerts: Enable notifications for job openings that meet your search criteria.
- Use “1-Click Apply”: Apply to jobs quickly using ZipRecruiter’s one-click application feature.
- Track your applications: Keep a record of jobs you’ve applied for and revisit listings you’re interested in.
5. AngelList
Why it matters: AngelList is the go-to platform for job seekers interested in startups, especially in the tech industry. It allows you to connect with companies that prioritize innovation and growth.
- Free Features: Job search, profile creation, company listings, and job applications.
- Paid Features: None for job seekers. AngelList focuses on providing free access for candidates to apply to startup roles.
Step-by-step to use AngelList effectively:
- Create a strong profile: Highlight your skills and work experience tailored for the startup world. Make sure your profile clearly showcases your unique strengths.
- Browse startup job listings: Filter jobs by category, location, and company size to find the roles that match your expertise.
- Apply directly: When you find a role that interests you, apply directly with your profile and resume. Many startup jobs encourage candidates to share their portfolios or relevant projects.
- Follow companies and network: Engage with posts from interesting startups and follow them to stay updated on job openings and company news.
6. Jobscan
Why it matters: Jobscan is an excellent tool for optimizing your resume for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). It helps ensure your resume is tailored to specific job descriptions, increasing your chances of passing automated screenings.
- Free Features: Resume analysis, job description matching.
- Paid Features: Premium access provides unlimited resume scans and advanced job matching tools.
Step-by-step to use Jobscan effectively:
- Upload your resume: Start by uploading your current resume to Jobscan.
- Paste the job description: Copy and paste the job description for the role you’re applying to into the tool.
- Review your results: Jobscan will provide a score showing how well your resume matches the job description. It will also suggest changes to improve keyword usage.
- Optimize your resume: Revise your resume based on Jobscan’s feedback to make sure it’s aligned with the job’s requirements.
7. FlexJobs
Why it matters: FlexJobs is dedicated to helping you find remote, part-time, freelance, and flexible jobs. It’s ideal for anyone looking for more work-life balance or interested in remote positions.
- Free Features: Job search, basic job listings.
- Paid Features: Full access to all listings, advanced job alerts, and additional features like skills testing.
Step-by-step to use FlexJobs effectively:
- Create an account: Set up a profile and customize your job search criteria for flexible and remote roles.
- Search for flexible jobs: Use filters to find positions that match your desired flexibility, including remote and part-time roles.
- Set up alerts: Get notified when new flexible or remote jobs that match your preferences are posted.
- Apply for jobs: Apply directly through the platform and track the status of your applications.
Wrapping It All Up
Navigating a job search in 2025 might feel overwhelming at first, but with the right tools, you can make the process much easier and even enjoyable. Whether you’re polishing your LinkedIn profile, setting up job alerts on Indeed, browsing curated listings on FlexJobs, or fine-tuning your resume with Jobscan, these platforms can help you take control of your search and get noticed by the right people.
And remember, it’s not just about landing a job—it’s about positioning yourself for long-term success. By following these step-by-step guides for each platform, you’ll be using the tools effectively, making your job search smoother and more strategic. With the right tools and a supportive network, you’ll be ready for whatever comes next in your career!
Best of luck and remember – You’ve Got This!
