The Jobvite Social Recruiting Survey 2010 was conducted online between May and June 2010; over 600 human resource and recruiting professionals participated in the survey. Respondents answered questions using an online survey tools and the response data is available only in aggregate form.

Specifics on the survey include how social recruiting programs are measured; use of social networks like LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube for recruiting; spending trends and candidate quality of recruiting sources; use of online profiles in reviewing candidates; employee referral program; hiring plans and applicant characteristics.

Since you are looking for a job and should be active on LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter (the three social networking websites most popular with employers, according to the survey), remember these four reasons to use these sites and actively manage your profiles.

• You’ll have access to job opportunities at progressive, growing companies.
• You’ll have access to job opportunities first.
• Employers are increasingly using LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter to find and vet prospective employees.
• You may not find as many job ads on job boards or job opportunities through recruiters.

Link to Jobvite

Link to Article about Survey

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GUzUsCREgrU

You Tube Video - Linkedin Job Seeker Service

Summary of the Service

• Stand out from the crowd
• Move to the top of the list as a Featured Applicant when you apply to jobs on LinkedIn.
• Be prepared for interviews
• View expanded profiles and manage your contacts with Profile Organiz
• Reach out to hiring decision makers
• Send personalized InMail messages directly to hiring managers.

Details of the Service:

• New Move to the top of the list as a Featured Applicant
• Contact hiring managers directly with InMail messages
• InMails
• Save profiles & organize your job search with Profile Organizer
• Prepare for interviews – see full profiles of hiring decision makers
• Get introduced to inside sources at companies
• New Join Lindsey Pollak’s webinar: “Job Seeking on LinkedIn”
• Find opportunities faster with Premium Search
• See who’s interested in your profile
• Let users reach you for free with OpenLink
• Get priority customer service

Cost of the Service:

• Basic Account: $19.95 per month
• Job Seeker Account:  $29.95 per month
• Job Seeker Plus Account: $49.95 per month

Webcam-For-Interviews

This one-way, video-on-demand technique involves logging into a Web site and being presented with a set of questions, to which you record timed answers. Besides saving money, recruiters also like video-on-demand so they can do comparative behavioral analysis of job candidates.

See this article for more information:

http://www.fastcompany.com/article/webcam-interviews-how-survive-and-thrive

Details about article:

Invest in quality gear:

Be sure to follow the interviewer’s directions. “Don’t be like the IT person who thinks he or she knows everything and comes off looking clueless,” Newman cautions.

Create good lighting and ambiance:

Make sure the windows are closed to shut out traffic noise, and that the dog and kids are occupied elsewhere. Pay attention to your background — a bookshelf is good, an Insane Clown Posse poster, not so much.

Practice:

Have someone ask you some potential questions and record your responses so that you can critique your oral delivery and mannerisms.

Give maximum content, minimum bloviation:

Keeping your answers to two minutes maximum, and concentrate on getting the main point into the first 15 seconds.

And be passionate. But not too passionate.

Rather than using job boards like Monster and CareerBuillder, recruiters are seeing the value of social networking sites like LinkedIn. Social media tools such as LinkedIn make the recruiter’s job more efficient and often allow them to find job seekers more efficiently

It is true that the online social networking world is expanding, and recruiters need all the help they can get – from you and your Linkedin account. Read on to see what you can do to get the attention of employers who use LinkedIn Recruiting:

1. Update your LinkedIn “Status” regularly

• Link to articles you have written or in which you are quoted
• Update status with your latest blog posts
• Discuss business accomplishments
• If you are actively looking for a job, tell people what you are looking for!
• Update your status on Twitter.

2. Increase your number of trusted connections

• Use webmail importer to bring your real world professional relationships online and to find your contacts who are already on LinkedIn.
• Depending on whether you are using web mail or Outlook, check out the respective toolbars that will help organize your professional relationship.

3. Make your LinkedIn profile 100% complete

• Include all companies, education, and awards – all are key items that recruiters search for.
• References are very important. The more that is known about you the better.
• The more robust your profile, the higher you will be in the Google search rankings.
• The more information a recruiter has upfront, the more efficient the search process.

4. Include your web site and blog links

• Add suitable weblinks to the “Websites” section on your LinkedIn profile
• This could range from your career blog to your Twitter profile. Alternatively, you can also link to a guest blog post you wrote recently.

5. Do not block incoming emails

• The LinkedIn community is all about participation so accept incoming communication from fellow LinkedIn users.
• If a recruiter reaches out to you and you are not interested, let him or her know or better yet refer a friend
• Note that LinkedIn actually allows you to control how you receive emails and notifications.

6. Use the same profile picture that you use on other social media sites

• A picture helps to create and reinforce your online brand
• It will help a recruiter identify you on the interview day at “Peets”

7. Use the “Specialties” box to fill in keywords

• List as many keywords as possible that are relevant to your roles, capabilities, and interests that will help you turn up on LinkedIn Search
• Keyword rich, well-developed, complete profiles are recommended

8. Make changes to your profile after every job change or promotion

• The recruiters you are linked to will notice these changes
• It is harder to be found if people don’t know where you are
• Update your LinkedIn profile as you would your change-of-address at the post office

9. Join Linkedin Groups and post items of interest

• Share your interests, memberships, specializations, backgrounds, and experience
• Group members may also know of a potential opportunites that your are seaching for

10. Review company profiles and reach out to employees there for information interviews

• See who you may want to work for
• Research who is in the company for whom you have an interview with

But I recognize the importance of networking, especially as a newly hired employee or when I have been promoted to a new position.  This “transition” is period when the current employees in your new department / division or company are making up their minds about whether you are dependable—or a loser who should never have been hired / promoted.

Speaking of ‘transition” … Click here for a PDF on the golden age of networking! ”

Transition Tips:  See some best practices on personal branding, how to be a memorable job candidate and learning how to become a world-class networker.  Power networking strategies can quickly expand your network. Real world strategies to shorten your time in transition. Your dogged determination to never stop learning, executing and trying new strategies, especially if they take you out of your comfort zone will help to create a powerful personal brand for you.

Most people don’t take to networking naturally, which is why it is often tough for me to be comfortable about reaching out to people.   The key point is that networking is the best way to acquire crucial information about the job and on how to succeed early. So when I am newly hired (or promoted), I have committed to immediatley do the following:

1) Identify who is in your network:   I ask myself:   Who can help me? Who knows what’s going on? Who gets around roadblocks? Who are the critical links in the supply or information chain?

2) Dare to introduce yourself:    Most people will be more receptive than you think.  Few professionals will refuse a call from someone who starts the conversation with “I’m new in my job, and I’m trying to get to know people who….”

3) Share what you know:   Reciprocate by sharing information you know will be useful.  Keep connected with people by, for example, sending relevant articles once a quarter or congratulating your contact about a job change.

In conclusion, the time spent in the early days building a network will save time down the road when you’re trying to solve problems, leverage resources, and achieve success.  You will regret it if you fail to set up that initial contact with people.

Consider that the  idea of  “added value” is a basic truth which is not disputed, everyone wins with it in the mix and customers and co-workers are happy and, because of that, the organization flourishes.

It is true that our society needs successful endeavors in every facet; why not add “added value” to the mix?  Here are ways I know I add value to an organization:

* Match your manager’s priorities to yours; the end result will be that you will be in alignment with your company’s goals and vision.
* Focus on your skills, projects, and assignments which have had positive outcomes.
* When you typically deliver results on-time (or even early) this action shows that you are organized and dependable.
* Keep up on your knowledge about your profession; attend company-sponsored training, professional association events, and read trade journals.
* Show your flexibility and team player spirit. Offer to help out colleagues when it appears that they need it. Never state, “that’s not in my job description”.
* How about responsibility. Own up to your mistakes and focus on what you’ve learned rather than on what went wrong.

The primary purpose of any business, service or industry is to add value in greater proportion than the costs connected with its’ establishment in the first place.  As noted by Albert Einstein:  “Try not to become a man of success but rather try to become a man of value.”

I recognize that  through individual efforts; through a focus on building the customer base into a profit center,  I can truly add value.

New Year’s Resolutions get a bad reputation for being something you say in January, but quit by February.

This year, make a resolution that you will …

• think about what I liked and disliked in previous jobs and develop the ultimate job description. I will use this to give my search focus and meaning
• network 80 % of the time and use the Web 20 % of the time
• be open to exploring many new options in the job market, understanding that there may be interesting opportunities beyond my traditional field
• review which tactics did and did not yield results in 2009, and I will work to understand how I might improve in those areas that did not do as well as I had hoped
• promise not to apply for positions I am definitely not qualified for
• ask friends or acquaintances who manage and hire people to evaluate my cover letter and resume and give me real feedback – even if it hurts to hear it
• set myself weekly goals during my job search and keep to their deadlines
• consider new industries and career paths, but I will research the likelihood of being able to make that switch easily
• work on building relationships with my recruiter by helping him/her as much as they help me
• will apply immediately (with a tailored cover letter and resume) and search for friends and colleagues who could act as referrals to help me network into the organization
• consider my job search a full-time job and will not become complacent with my current situation. I will prioritize my job search above television, video games, or recreational internet use
• meet (on the phone or in person) three new people a week who can help me with my job search
• be thoughtful about when to send my resume, and I will not send my resume to everyone I know
• not spam my resume to companies where I am seeking employment. Instead, I will tailor my resume to each company, so that my relevant skills are stressed for each specific position of department. The company will know I am serious and intent on working there
• learn to leverage Social Media as a vehicle for communicating about myself, and not just as a distraction for hours chatting with new friends be specific about the type of work and organizations, including names of target organizations that I find most interesting
• send thank-you cards after every interview, whether I thought the interview went well or poorly
• not assume a person cannot help me find a job.  They may know a great contact I need to meet
• set up informal discussions with decision-makers/hiring managers even if they are not hiring right now.  They may be hiring soon be open to exploring many options because an interesting opportunity may exist beyond what I can see on the surface start attending more job fairs and networking events, including those that may put me outside of my traditional industry
• consider that my resume may not be as good as it could be and seek advice
• acknowledge that I may not be an interviewing pro. Especially if I’ve interviewed a lot and have not landed a job.  I will seek professional advice
• start considering a wide array of employment opportunities, instead of only the areas I’ve been used to
• build a plan for my job hunt by outlining resources to research and key people to contact.  I will create a schedule, too.  Milestones and goals are important
• provide or demonstrate my value to my newly-made contacts first, before asking for their help
• share my concerns with a few trusted friends who can offer good advice (instead of giving up hope)
• re-examine what my real financial needs are so that I can be more open to opportunities that may pay me less than what I want
• meet, whether by phone,direct e-mail, or in person, three new people who can help me in my job search each week
• will volunteer.  I will make good use of my time by meeting new people and creating substance for a discussion on “what I’ve been up to recently.”  I will make a difference when many can use my assistance
• evaluate opportunities by recognizing that this job can be a stepping stone to another job (inside or outside the company) – especially as the market improves
• not depend on my network to find a job for me, but will view it as one of several methods of finding employment
• Read.  Learn. Teach.  I will educate myself or others on a subject-matter than is pertinent to my profession
• do volunteer work to keep myself busy, and to also answer the question interviewers will put to me regarding what I have been up to recently in my unemployment
• consider exercise to be a good stress-reliever and pick a program I will enjoy (not necessarily bring the fastest results)
• ask friends or family to give me full and honest criticism of my resume and of my interview tactics, even if it may be difficult to hear
• not become frustrated with my job search, or, if I do, I will not take out that frustration on my friends or family.

• not give up

Every actor knows that verbal messages are enhanced by body language, facial expression, voice intonation and props. Remember the job interview is a one time only performance – so make it a superb one!  When the job interview spotlight shines on you make sure your words, body language, and voice work work together to land you that position!

• Deal with Nervousness:

A little nervousness can actually aid you in being sharp and improve your performance. But heart-thumping, face-twitching, voice-quivering nervousness will reflect poorly on you and your self-confidence.

To rid your body of nervous tension, just before you go into the interview find a private spot outside or in the
restroom, shake out your arms, legs, and hands. Take a couple of deep breaths. This physical exercise releases tension that has built up and helps calm you. Then, close your eyes and visualize a scene about winning, seeing yourself as the “winner.” This visualization helps get you into a positive,  “I can do it” framework.

• Come Prepared:

The night before the interview pack up what you need to bring including a couple of resumes.  Have your list of references. Be sure all addresses, emails, and phone numbers are current and accurate. Include any work samples and the list of questions you intend to ask.   Check Google Maps to be sure you know where you are going.

Be on time; in fact, be there 10 minutes early.

• Pass The First Impression:

Before you even say hello, the employer’s mind is evaluating attire, hygiene, style, and formulating an opinion as to whether or not you fit into their  organization.   Even in today’s more casual, dressed-down workplace, appearance
counts a great deal with employers. Therefore, dress professionally. Greet the interviewer with a smile, and offer a firm handshake.

Nothing creates a poorer impression than a weak, couple-of-fingers handshake.

• Non-Verbal Cues:

Movements, gestures, posture and facial expressions are an important part of your overall performance. A sincere
smile sends a warm, confident message. Eye contact is one of the most important things employers notice about you. It conveys confidence that your message is believable.   Smile often, and be yourself. Douse vocal intonations to make your point so you’ll seem personable.

• Offer Support Documentation:

Every employer loves to see proof that you can do their job. It’s impressive to bring samples that demonstrate your abilities to do the job. Some examples: a spreadsheet that is an efficient tracking system, reports you have written,
materials you have created, brochures that list you as a panelist or speaker, etc.

• Listen:

Listen to the hiring manager / recruiter’s questions, hear their needs, hear their expectations. If you listen carefully, employers often reveal everything you need to know. It is frustrating for the interviewer to ask questions that never get answered, so listen closely. Many employers reveal their “hidden agendas,” those few things that really influence their decision. Paying close attention allows you to really address their true needs and land the position.

Check this HowCast video:

Click here to view the embedded video.

It is logical and common for professionals to build up their network during a job search, and then stop being in contact with their network once they have a job. This definition encourages people to continue networking even when they are not looking for a job.

• Networking is the most effective method for gathering job information from contacts to assist you in a job search. It does not require you to know scores of people or that you only talk to incredibly important people.
• Networking is essentially understanding the nature of relationship networks, talking to people you already know and developing relationships.
• Networking is about getting people you know to introduce you to people who are connected with your targeted organizations.
• Networking should not make you cringe. It is not just for extroverts ….. anyone can network successfully … all you need to do is: prepare, plan and spend the required time.

There are many ways to build your network. It isn’t just about going to after-hours networking meetings to stay connected. It’s about extending your efforts to everyone you know. Choose people you know and ask for introductions of those you don’t know.

Check this CommonCraft video on Networking:

Click here to view the embedded video.

Getting the word out about you and your job search is a very effective job search technique. Be sure to let everyone know what you are looking for, using your marketing plan and target list where appropriate.

Consider setting up a personal Web site. It is easy to build and customize your own professional looking Web site using materials you have already prepared, such as your resume and marketing plan.

Note that body language and how you actually say something are more important than the words you use. Remember, every time you send an email, you forfeit 93% of your communication. We tend to use email a lot, as it’s easier and faster, but remember how it limits real communication. When you talk on the phone, you’re still only getting 45% of the communication.

Telephone Calls: Another tip is when you call someone at the recommendation of someone else, start by mentioning the connection first.

Check this FoxNews video:

You know the saying, “It’s all about who you know.” But how do you network … if you don’t really know anyone yet? This week Adam wonders how he can get his foot in the door at top marketing companies in a new city, without an initial contact. Nicole shows him new strategies to connect with top executives, and how to ensure a call back.

Network Your Way to a Job Offer

BONUS INFO:

Hierarchy of a Network “Database”

• Database – Everyone in all of your contact databases (email, LinkedIn, personal address book, Twitter, etc.).
• Network – All he people who would return your phone calls! They’re people you are in touch with and you trust. Based on statistics, this group shouldn’t be more than 200-250 people, as after that amount, it’s more difficult to stay in touch.
• Inner Circle – People you could go to to ask their advice about what they think you should be doing for a living.
• Personal Board of Advisers (PBA) - These are the people who should champion you in your life. It’s like a Board of Directors, but for you, rather than for a company. You should have about 4-5 people on your PBA each year.
• Friends, Family, or Fools (FFF) – This is an obvious group… that actually likes you.

1) Focus Your Job Search:

Use the job search engines to find jobs by using keywords that match your interests and the location where you want to work. Narrowing your search criteria will help you focus your job search and will give you more relevant job listings to review and less non-relevant job listings to weed through.

2) Build Your Brand:

Create profiles on LinkedIn, Facebook, VisualCV, and JobFox. A strong personal brand that portrays you in a professional light will provide recruiters, employers, and contacts with a strong positive impression of you as a candidate they should be interested in.

3) Connect With Your Contacts:

Now that you’ve created profiles on networking sites, use them. Connect with everyone you know, because you never know which contact may be able to help you with your job search or put you in touch with someone who can.

4) Use Job Search Tools:

There are a variety of widgets, gadgets, and tools that will help expedite your job search and manage your career. Use them to organize your job search and save valuable job searching time.

5) Create a List of Companies:

Do you have a list of companies you would like to work for? It’s a good idea to research company information and create a list of companies to target in your job search. All the information you need is available on the web, and it’s easy to find detailed information about potential employers online.

6) Find Job Listings:

Check job search engine sites, job banks, company web sites, networking sites, niche job sites, and sites listed by type of job. Consider working with a recruiter to maximize your opportunities.

7) Target Your Resume and Cover Letter:

It’s important to take the time to write targeted resumes and cover letters that specifically link your qualifications to the hiring criteria for the jobs you are applying for. The hiring manager will be able to see, at a glance, why, and how, you are qualified for the job. You’ll have a much better chance of getting an interview than if you send a generic letter and resume.

8) Ace the Interview:

Research the company before you go for the interview, dress appropriately, practice answering and asking interview questions, and make a concerted effort to impress the interviewer with your skills, experience, confidence, and expertise.

9)  Follow Up:

It’s important to follow up after an interview by thanking everyone you met with. Also reiterate your interest in the position and remind the hiring manager why you’re an excellent candidate for the job.

10) Accept (or Decline) a Job Offer:

When you receive a job offer, it’s important to take the time to carefully evaluate the offer so you are making an educated decision to accept, or to reject, the offer. You don’t have to accept a job just because it was offered to you, but do carefully evalute it and if you decline, do so politely.

Source: Alison Doyle, About.com