Make a Net gain.(Features)

       To net, or not to net? That is the big question for today's jobseekers. 
       Fans of the Internet will tell you all about its speed and global accessibility. 
       They'll say it's a must for those seeking information about employment prospects and actually applying for work. 
       Internet critics will insist that it is too big and complex for you to usefully find your way around it. 
They will advise that you could waste a lot of time on it - or even get ripped off. 
       So is the Internet a boon, a bore or something too big to ignore? 
       Just how important is it compared with conventional jobseeking methods? 
       One thing you need to understand is that more and more companies are now using a range of new technology in the recruitment process. 
       From the pre-selection stage to the final interview, the chances are that "impartial" technology will play a part in deciding your prospects. 
       This means there is a whole new etiquette for jobseeking which has to take technology into account somewhere along the line. 
       How vital the Internet as such will be to you as an individual will depend very much on personal circumstances and job area. 
       But, whatever your field, remember that any of the range of new skills to be learned could enhance your work prospects. 
       What you don't need to do is fall completely for all the information super-highway hype. 
       Efficient website jobs pages are still largely for big companies and IT enthusiasts. 
       And only a very few hi-tech firms will demand applications by electronic transmission. 
       That doesn't mean that effort isn't worthwhile. 
       The Internet might be able to tell you a lot about prospective employers and may offer facilities for applications. 
       Treat it with caution and respect - you'll be learning something as you go along. 
       Careers adviser Andrew Paine has written a jobseekers' guide to the Internet but reveals that no jobseeker has yet used the system to ask HIM for information! 
       He says: "The Internet is just another tool. But, if you know what you are doing, it can be brilliant." 
       For the bulk of the population, it would seem, it's time to start learning but not time to lose sleep if the Net just sounds to you like something you get caught up in. 
       You wouldn't be far wrong with that analysis anyway! Typically, newcomers either get hopelessly lost -- or hooked. 
       This week, we can offer a little help through the maze. So log on to the advice inside