Mainstream Media & Social Networking

First let me make a few disclaimers:

1. Our series on Social Networking was over on June 30th

2. I am not an expert on Social Networking

3. I am pretty clear that Social Networking is a critical ingredient in your job search today

All these disclaimers stated up front, let me share my thoughts tonight. I was watching CNN@Work this afternoon and they were discussing how to “spruce up” your resume. They didn’t use the word “spruce”, but they were attempting to give tips on creating a resume that will get the attention of the hiring manager. Absolutely great information, however, there was a glaring whole in the information being shared. There was not one word about the importance of Social Networking in the hiring process today.

Let me make it clear – If you are a job seeker, and you are not investing time in Social Networking, you are spinning your wheels and your job search is obsolete. You can not just send well crafted resumes from the comfort of your home or library and believe that you will get a job. If you don’t believe me, answer this question – “How long have you been looking for a job?” If you have been looking for more than 30 days, I rest my case. If you have been looking for more than 2 weeks and your phone has not rung for one interview, I rest my case.

Mainstream media, CNN has valuable tips, but they missed the mark today when Social Networking was not included in their recommendations for your job search.

Here is the best tip CNN shared:

Develop several versions of your resume – Each resume should be targeted

This is a great tip, but resumes only open doors for a potential interview. If you want a job, if you want to fast track your job search process, get online and start making connections. Ask for referrals and recommendations of those you are connected to.

Image Credit: http://thegoldguys.blogspot.com/