We live in a digital age and the internet has become an integral part of the job search process. You can research employers, submit applications and attend virtual interviews. All from the comfort of your own home.
The modern job search has moved almost completely online. Even as a recruiter, I rely on LinkedIn Recruiter to source candidates.
But, as convenient as online job searching is, it also comes with risks to your privacy and security. This is where a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can play a crucial role.
In this article, we will discuss the top five reasons why you should use a VPN when searching for jobs online. Disclosure: We are affiliates for some of the products and services mentioned on this page. Learn more
What is a VPN?
A virtual private network or VPN, is a service that encrypts your internet traffic. A VPN makes it look like you are connecting to the internet from somewhere other than where you are.
It does this by routing your internet traffic through a server in another location. When you connect to a VPN, your device first connects to the VPN’s server.
The VPN server encrypts your traffic, routing it through its network to a server somewhere else in the world. The server in the other location then decrypts your traffic and sends it to its destination.
Why should you use a VPN for your online job search?
There are 5 reasons why you should consider using a VPN when searching for a job online.
The good news is VPNs are not expensive and are now easier to use than ever. I’m also going to provide you with 5 VPN recommendations below.
1. Use a VPN to protect your personal information
Let’s face it, applying for jobs online involves providing a lot of sensitive information.
Your phone number, email address, home address and sometimes even your Social Security number.
Without proper protection, this data is susceptible to interception by cybercriminals. Worst case scenario is that this can lead to theft and other forms of fraud.
A VPN will encrypt your connection, ensuring that your personal information remains secure. This added layer of protection significantly reduces the risk of your data falling into the wrong hands.
2. A VPN to can help you to bypass geographical restrictions
Some job search websites and employers impose geographical restrictions on certain job listings. These restrictions could limit your access to opportunities based on your physical location.
A VPN will change your IP address to appear as if you are browsing from somewhere else in the world. This enables you to bypass these geographical restrictions.
3. You can access blocked websites and job boards with a VPN
In some countries or organizations, certain websites and job boards are restricted. This can limit your ability to explore available job opportunities or access career resources.
By using a VPN, you can circumvent these restrictions and gain access to blocked websites and job boards.
4. VPNs maintain your anonymity and avoid targeted ads
When searching for jobs online, your browsing history is often tracked by websites and advertising networks. This information is then used to serve targeted ads, which can be intrusive and distracting.
Moreover, targeted ads may reveal your job search activities to your current employer or compromise your privacy. By using a VPN, you can maintain your anonymity and prevent websites and advertising networks from tracking your online activities.
5. Overcoming network limitations and enhancing connection security
A lot of job searching activity takes place over public Wi-Fi networks. How often have you searched for jobs whilst sitting in a coffee shop or co-working space? Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured. This leaves your data vulnerable to interception. A VPN creates a secure and encrypted connection between your device and the internet, even on public Wi-Fi.
Which VPN should you use?
Now that we’ve explored what VPNs are and why they are so important, let’s talk about how to find the right VPN for you.
There are so many VPN options on the market with the list growing all the time. Here are four important considerations when deciding on the VPN provider for you.
Security:
Make sure the one you choose has strong security features, such as 256-bit encryption and a no-logs policy.
Speed:
Your VPN should not slow down your internet connection too much.
User-friendliness:
Pick one that’s easy to use. A user-friendly interface will save you time and frustration.
Has an app for all major platforms:
Don’t forget you’ll want to use your VPN on your laptop, tablet and phone. Make sure you pick a VPN with an app.
Price:
The VPN should be affordable, especially if you plan to use it long-term.
5 VPN Recommendations
Here are 5 popular VPN providers that you should consider.
Don’t forget, you should always conduct your own independent research before making a final decision.
Features and benefits of NordVPN:
- Fast speeds – 6730+ Mbps
- 5700+VPN servers
- Malware scan for downloads
- Alerts about leaked credentials
- Tracker and ad blocker
- 30-day money back guarantee
Price: $3.49/month
Features and benefits of Surfshark:
- Strong encryption
- Unlimited devices
- 24/7 support
- Two-factor authentication
- Ad blocker
- 30-day money back guarantee
Price: $2.49/month
Features and benefits of atlasVPN:
- 4K fast streaming
- Unlimited devices
- 24/7 support
- WireGuard protocol
- Ad blocker
- Email protection
Price: $2.30/month
Features and benefits of ExpressVPN:
- Server locations in 94 countries worldwide
- Use on all devices
- 24/7 support
- Extensions for multiple browsers
- 10Gbps servers for faster VPN service
- 30-day money back guarantee
Price: $6.67/month
Features and benefits of CyberGhost:
- Up to 7 devices secured simultaneously
- Over 100 locations across 91 countries
- 24/7 support
- CyberGhost provides unlimited bandwidth
- 256-bit AES encryption
- Split tunneling and a kill switch
Price: $2.29/month
Are VPNs legal?
Yes, VPNs are legal. In fact, VPNs are widely used by individuals and companies all over the world.The need to protect your private information and online activity is more important than ever before. This means that VPNs are now more common than ever.
In some countries VPNs are discouraged. However it isn’t feasible for any country to ban all VPNs. Many governments encourage the use of VPNs by their officials as a means to stay connected and competitive in today’s world.
Conclusion
Not long ago you didn’t hear much about VPNs and wouldn’t have considered using one for your job search. Now, however, VPNs are common place and a necessary tool to stay safe online.
The amount of personal information that gets shared during a job search makes a VPN an important tool in your job search toolkit.
