When I left my last position, on what turned out to be a very long, extended leave from the workforce, the internet was just coming into existence as a viable job search option. Of course, the internet had been there for a while but the whole idea of job postings/searches was just budding. That was circa 1997/8. Now, back in the workforce, I see how far job searches on-line have come. And how important it is for employers to understand the reasons applicants look online. I left with the New York Times having 2 full help wanted sections on Sundays...sometimes close to 100 pages long. You sat down with a cup of coffee, a red pen and your 2 sections and spent hours going over ads. Those days are over. Not of course to diminish newspaper advertising but the fact is, there is a new kid on the block that works very well in conjunction with print ads. So, here are some reasons potential job seekers will use the internet:

1) YOU CAN ACCESS CURRENT INFORMATION AT ALL HOURS OF THE DAY OR NIGHT. The internet doesn't recognize holidays, and the whole thing won't go down all at once for maintenance. It's there when you are ready to use it, even at midnight when the kids have gone to bed.
2) YOU CAN REACH DEEPER INTO YOUR LOCAL AREA AS WELL AS TAKE YOUR SEARCH FAR BEYOND YOUR REGULAR BOUNDRIES.
There are no geographic limits. There may be employers who would prefer to hire from their local area, but that doesn't mean you can't accept the job and, if it's worth it, pay for your own move. You can also dig down deeper into your local area, finding the smaller employers within walking distance from your house who are looking to find someone just like you!
3) USING THE INTERNET IN YOUR SEARCH DEMONSTRATES LEADING-EDGE SKILLS. Whether you found the job listing online or did research online before your interview, employers like that. It means you not only know how to use a computer but also how to navigate the online world.
4) THE INTERNET CAN HELP YOU EXPLORE CAREER ALTERNATIVES AND OPTIONS THAT YOU MAY NOT HAVE CONSIDERED. Not quite happy with your current job? Is it the job or career path you have chosen? Not sure? Explore! Can you use your current skills in a new profession? There are plenty of self-assessement tools online, loads of occupations to explore and lists of local career counselors to help you if you need it.