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Social Media & the Recruiting Evolution

It's here and it's here to stay. Social media is making its footprint in the employment world. One third of employers now use social networking sites to connect with potential recruits. What does that mean for you? It means that it’s not what you know, but how you promote yourself on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn that can really boost your job opportunity prospects.

Recent research by Harvey Nash UK revealed that, in a bid to boost traditional recruitment methods and reach out to a wider pool of talent, social networks are increasingly becoming a mainstream recruitment tool for employers. Half of employers believe that if candidates invest time in developing a strong online brand using social networks and networking online, they are more likely to be hired. Almost a quarter of employers routinely use sites such as Facebook and LinkedIn as part of their recruitment processes and 15 percent said they would miss key new recruits if they didn't tap into social networks.

Commenting on the potential of social networking in a tough job market, social networking expert, Dan Rutherford, said: "Employers are increasingly looking for new recruits who have a strong online brand. A good place to start is with your Facebook profile. Use it as a personal ad detailing your skills and qualifications."

Rutherford continued, "Twitter is another great way of networking and keeping track of employers that are actively recruiting. Lots of employers post job openings on Twitter. By letting your followers know your employment situation, they might be able to pass on job leads that you weren't aware of."

Rob Grimsey, Strategic Development Director of Harvey Nash, said: "While real-world networking and traditional job services remain invaluable, Web savvy job seekers should act now to gain the competitive edge as online networking helps jobseekers stay well connected and get career informed. Peer-to-peer relationships, nurtured online and off-line, are at the heart of the 'new' recruitment experience. It is essential for job seekers to wisen up to how employers are looking for candidates in order to remain competitive."

Harvey Nash offers the following tips on how job searchers can use their online profile to attract employers:

- If you decide to use Facebook for professional networking, take a close look at your profile and decide what you want business contacts or prospective employers to see - and what you don't!

- Sign-up to Linked-In if you haven't already.

- Track potential employers and recruitment consultancies on Twitter.

- Don't leave a blank or incomplete profile on any sites you use or send employers and business contacts to regularly. A full profile gives people the best opportunity to get to know you.

- Post content relevant to your job search but limit the photos you post.

- Network strategically - connect to people who can help with your job search.

- Think about joining interest groups which fit your field of interest.

- Finally, don't limit activity to online social networks. Speak to recruitment agencies with expertise in your local market.

Expand your social network to Harvey Nash. Visit us here on Facebook today!