How much do hiring managers rely on social recruiting to source candidates?

Organizations have made major cutbacks, arguably over the past 5 years or more as the recession has taken its toll. Hiring managers and human resource professionals have therefore been challenged to find less expensive or “expense less” strategies for talent acquisition. Organizations cannot necessarily afford to place advertisements or farm open job requisitions out to recruitment firms who will take a minimum of 20% of the candidate’s annual salary as payment. Social media has become the venue for locating talent and the task has been pushed back to internal hiring managers/HR.

How important is it for job seekers to have an active presence on social media channels like LinkedIn?

The current percentage of recruiters that use LinkedIn to vet candidates is 94%, so basically, if you are not on LinkedIn, you do not exist.

How often would you say they should interact on these channels?

I recommend that active job seekers spend approximately 20 to 30 minutes per day per day on social media job search strategy.

What are top three job search tips you have for someone new to the social media world?

1.     A well-crafted LinkedIn profile is a must. Make sure that your profile is 100% complete paying very close attention to what recruiters will browse first:

−       A professional and inviting headshot.

−       The professional headline below your name which should NOT be the default that says your title and company.

−        A robust profile that clearly communicated the value that you have to offer.

1.     Be a contributor. Join relevant groups, blog, and participate in conversations. Share ideas, compliment and comment on others content, and your offer assistance and expertise. When you are focused not only on finding what you want but how you can help other like-minded individuals, opportunities will present themselves.

2.     Stay current on your target industry and companies. Learn what challenges organizations are facing and how you could help to “ease their pain”. Then strategy how to get your personal marketing materials in front of the right people so you can communicate the value that you offer.

What are the most common mistakes you see job seekers making online?

Inappropriate postings.  You may think your Facebook is secure, but it is not necessarily. Never bad mouth your boss or your employer. Always make sure that whatever you post online showcases your image in a positive way.

Only asking for assistance but not giving or offering back. For job seekers, social media is a give and take tool. If your online presence seems like it “is all about you”, or screams “give me give me” you are no longer a person of interest. 

Not doing anything. If you do nothing with your online job search tools, you will get nowhere.  Build your network, strengthen your brand, and establish yourself as a person that a potential employer needs to call to learn more.

Michelle A. Riklan

Managing Director of Riklan Resources

Michelle A. Riklan is an internationally recognized professional resume writer, career thought leader, and HR Consultant.

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