Use of Google Maps in a Job Search

Posted By: Thomas Shaw, 1:12am Friday 10 July 2009

The idea of mashing together Google Maps with a job search has been around since early 2006. But does it help a job seeker with their job search?

Maps are functional if used correctly. They provide information and allow the job seeker to interact with the website.

More and more workers want to work closer to home and using maps (or proximity based searches) allows the job seeker to map distance, travel routes, public transport, amenities etc. What about geographically constrained job seekers?

I personally like the use of a map in the job search results. It provides a visual representation but can get a little crowded as you can see in some examples below from JobLoft, ZubedJobs, JobMaps, GIS Jobs and TwitterJobSearch

Unfortunately, it is hard to pinpoint the exact location the job will be based. Hang on... I know Google Maps is very smart software but ask yourself these questions:

Do recruiters ask their clients where the exact role is based?
What happens with "mobile" workers. How can we map the exact location?
Work from home jobs?
Is there a field for you to post this when adding the job to a job board?

Maps can distract the job seeker from the more important aspects of the role such as job details, job description, qualifications, salary etc.

Overall, the job search experience using maps takes longer. But it has some advantages for job seekers.