Employers trolling social networks looking for job hunters

More employers are looking to social networking sites (both large and small) to source candidates). Here is a new surbey that tells you why and offers some tips for maximizing your online profile.

MENLO PARK, Calif., April 17 /PRNewswire/ -- Job hopefuls seeking an
edge in an increasingly competitive job market shouldn't overlook online
networking sites, a new survey suggests. Nearly two-thirds (62 percent) of
executives interviewed believe professional networking websites -- like
LinkedIn -- will prove useful in the search for job candidates in the next
three years. And one in three (35 percent) respondents cited social
networking sites -- such as Facebook or MySpace -- as a recruiting resource
they plan to tap.

The survey was developed by Robert Half International, the world's
first and largest staffing services firm specializing in accounting and
finance. It was conducted by an independent research firm and is based on
interviews with 150 senior executives from the nation's 1,000 largest
companies.

Executives were asked, "Which of the following technology tools do you
believe will be most useful in your firm's recruiting efforts in the next
three years?"

Their responses:*

Professional networking sites.............62%
Social networking sites...................35%
Video resumes.............................20%
Second Life................................7%
None of these.............................15%
Other/don't know......................... 10%
* Multiple responses were allowed.

"Maintaining and developing professional contacts has always been a
vital job search strategy, and networking websites are another vehicle for
doing so," said Max Messmer, chairman and CEO of Robert Half International
and author of Job Hunting For Dummies(R), 2nd Edition (John Wiley & Sons,
Inc.). "Networking sites can be used to identify new career opportunities,
create online profiles that highlight one's skills and experience, and
build a roster of business contacts over time."

While embracing technology can be beneficial, Messmer cautioned job
seekers not to depend exclusively on the digital world. "Tried-and-true
methods such as networking at industry events, submitting well-written
resumes and cover letters, and diligently following up with hiring managers
are still essential to landing the ideal job," Messmer said. "Combining
personal and online networking offers the best of both worlds."

Robert Half offers the following tips to make the most out of online
networking:

-- Craft your profile carefully. Pay as much attention to the content of
your online profile as you would the information in your resume, and
ensure the content highlights your professional skills, not just your
personal interests. Also double-check for typos and grammatical errors.
-- Ask for recommendations. Most professional networks provide space for
others to comment on your work or recommend you to others. Don't be shy
about asking colleagues to post on your site. These testimonials help
hiring managers learn more about your experience and work ethic.
-- Build your list of contacts. The more quality contacts you have, the
better. Invite trusted friends and colleagues to join your network. If
you see an interesting profile in one of their networks, ask them to
introduce or refer you to that person.
-- Don't post anything you wouldn't want an employer to see. Job seekers
should exercise discretion when posting personal information online.
Use privacy settings effectively and make sure that any public messages
or images you post don't detract from your professional image.
-- Don't stop networking once you have a job. Savvy job seekers continue
cultivating their networks after they secure positions. Online networks
aren't just job search tools; they also help you stay up-to-date on
industry trends, find mentors who can offer valuable career advice, and
alert you to upcoming events and educational opportunities.