by Stuttgart

Applying for a job used to be expensive what with the costs of printing CVs, buying special binders and then the costs of posting it. The first step into professional life quickly proved expensive and time-consuming.

Nowadays, the Internet has the process simpler. Job applicants can scan job openings quickly and efficiently online and contact potential employers by e-mail. Nonetheless, online applications have their own risks for people just starting their career.

"Especially when it comes to entry level positions, companies receive a lot of applications that can be sorted through fairly quickly by computer," said Christian Puettjer, a career advisor in Bredenbek in northern Germany.

Additionally, contacting potential employers by filling in an online form at a career centre is catching on. The 'classic' method of applying online for a job involves sending an e-mail. Many companies offer standardised forms on their websites.

Photographs: Stock Xchng