Posts tagged Social Media
Facebook – The New Recruiting Network?
Feb 4th
With the creation of the Facebook Graph Application, Mark Zuckerburg has proved that Facebook can compete with any social media platform, including LinkedIn. Last Tuesday, the company announced the introduction of a search tool that will allow people to connect by interest and location. This tool is going to be a huge asset for human resources and recruiters alike. Danny Rubin at the Huffington Post purports the example of a potential employer seeking out an employee who is fluent in French. The Graph Application allows this employer to search for a fluency in French within a Facebook profile. The employer could filter to have the search include ‘friends of friends’ or ‘friends of co-workers’. Predictions indicate this tool will be extremely useful because it allows employers to use their own immediate networks (which they already trust the most) to find a great hire.
Now that you know your Facebook profile could be analyzed in the near future by human resource departments, it may be time you made changes to increase your chance of a hire. Because the tool connects via pre-existing networks, it is important that you think critically before you delete your friends. Your friends can connect you to their networks which will allow for an increase in the number of people that can search for you. This makes sense if you think of Facebook as a new networking opportunity. The logic is don’t burn unnecessary bridges. Another way to increase your potential hire appeal is to make sure you list your full job title. You have to let these companies be aware of your experience in say photography or graphic design. If it is an applicable skill, go ahead and list it in your about me section. The next tip is to make sure your ‘like’ section is filled with companies you would like to connect with. However, this section could be used against your social profile if what you have chosen to like is damaging to your image. Basically, resist the urge to like anything profane or controversial. If you do feel the need to keep some of your more questionable interests or likes then Mashable suggests that you make sure you are adjusting your privacy settings accordingly.
Prior to launching this application, Facebook put up a Job Board search as part of its Social Jobs Partnership Initiative along with the U.S. Department of Labor Initiatives. It doesn’t stop there. Did you know Facebook right now has a plethora of job search applications for job seekers? For example, Be Known is Monster’s Facebook application that will update you with job and internship postings. There is an application called Business Cards which enables users to create personalized messages like a virtual business card that will sync with your Facebook profile. There are also applications like Hire My Friend that lets you to promote your job seeking friends. Furthermore, there are informational applications like Salary that give you insights on salary in a variety of fields. These applications are just the beginning. For a complete list you can use the Facebook Application Search and filter via jobs or resumes and see for yourself what beneficial applications you have been missing!
Since, Mark Zuckerburg is getting paid handsomely I suggest you let him and the Facebook team help you succeed in your own job search.
| Print article | This entry was posted by pyramid-admin on February 4, 2013 at 10:33 am, and is filed under Job Search, Social Media. Follow any responses to this post through RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback from your own site. |
Tweet your way into a job!
Jan 25th
The first step to using your Twitter to find a job is to ensure your Twitter is acceptable for the work place. Now I’m not pointing any fingers, but some of us on Twitter have a tendency to tweet whatever pops into our heads before we critically think about what we are putting online. Sometimes these thoughts are just funny quips but other times they can be damaging to your social image. A good rule before you send a tweet is to think ‘would I say this in front of a past boss?’ If the answer is yes, please proceed. But if the answer is no then trust me and don’t send that tweet because no one is going to think you are a comic genius anyway and it might just cost you the job.
Some of you are wondering if a company would even look at your online profiles. Many people don’t realize that their twitter profiles can be traced back to them. As of last June, statistics show that “50 percent of mid-sized companies and almost all large corporations use an applicant tracking system to screen candidates for job opportunities.” With the creation of more advanced tracking systems, human resource departments have increased access to what they refer to as your “social resume”. The point here is, don’t rule out the possibility that your potential employer hasn’t looked at your twitter.
Now that I’ve expressed my caveat about using this social media platform, we can discuss how useful it can be. An article posted by Dr. Sarah David purports that 42% of employers use Twitter to tweet candidates for job opportunities. A great article was posted on “Your HR Buddy” that details the top 10 recruiters on twitter. This is a great starting point. Be sure to start following these recruiters in your field. You can also use the Twitter search tools to look for recruiters that specialize in your industry. The advanced search tool on Twitter allows you to narrow your search to location and specific trends so you can find more relevant information.
In addition to searching for job postings, you can use Twitter to engage with others with similar interests. I encourage you to find ongoing conversations related to your field or with potential employers. Get involved in these ongoing dialogues and get someone to notice you. It is highly recommended that you use the ‘hashtag’ tool to tag phrases related to intriguing job postings. If you use Twitter to interact with potential employers, you just might tweet your way into a job!
| Print article | This entry was posted by pyramid-admin on January 25, 2013 at 10:20 am, and is filed under Job Search, Social Media. Follow any responses to this post through RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback from your own site. |
The Top 10 PCG Blog Posts of 2012
Dec 31st
Here is a look back on some of the most memorable posts on The Job Pyramid in 2012!
1 .Job Hunting Tips for Recent Grads
Highlights: Your major does not define your career path. Your major should play to your strengths. Inform employers about the skills you learned through your major, not the major itself.
Highlights: One-way interviews pre-screen candidates by having them respond to pre-set questions without a recruiter on the other end. Two-way interviews are conducted using a video calling service, such as Skype.
3. Resume Writing: What Stays and What Goes?
Highlights: Did you know, 72% of resumes are never seen by human eyes? Unfortunately, there is no way of knowing if a company uses one or not. The best way to approach this problem is to tailor your resume just like you would for a hiring manager. You have to read through your resume, delete all of the clutter and focus on the important key words.
4. Topics You Should Mention in an Interview
Highlights: If you have done the proper research on the company before the interview, you may have knowledge of upcoming developments or recent/on-going projects at the company. You should definitely incorporate this somewhere in the interview, but make sure it’s organic. Other topics you should mention are your skills and how they relate to the job as well as the industry as a whole.
Highlights: You should always treat the phone interview the same way you would an in-person job interview. Make sure you are in an area that has good reception and quiet. Don’t get too comfortable in the room and if possible, schedule the interview for a time of day when you’re most alert.
6. Tips for an Effective Cover Letter
Highlights: Use your cover letter as a method of influence and persuasion. Captivate with the first sentence. Make a personal connection. Follow the “Don’t Overuse ‘I’ Rule”. Showcase your accomplishments. There is no “I” in “TEAM”
Highlights: Research the event to find out the types of people/clients that will be attending. This way you can think of a general topic ahead of time that most would be interested in discussing. Use your own experiences to add to the conversation. Ask people about their work.
8. How to Effectively Use Your Professional Profile
Highlights: Keep it up to date – whenever you have an update, post it. Refresh your keywords and specialties – search online for common words that best describe what you do and use these key words organically. Be aware – create multiple online profiles and a personal blog and make sure they are all connected to enhance your personal search rankings.
9. Mentionings: 10 Musts to Score Your Dream Job
Highlights: If possible, gain some internship experience in the field where you’re applying. Understand that there is a fine line between being persistent and being a nuisance. Make sure you emphasize your accomplishments and not your credentials. Always come prepared with questions to ask the interviewer and customize your resume.
10. Tips for Calming Down Before an Interview
Highlights: Draft some basic questions you know you’ll be asked and rehearse in front a mirror or a friend. Do not start to dream up scenarios about how the interview can go wrong. Think positively. Get enough sleep. Take deep breaths to release anxiety. Take a trip to the office building before the day of your interview. This will reassure you that you are able to get there, how long it will take and will give you a visual of what you’re walking into.
And that’s a wrap! Looking forward to continue writing in 2013!
| Print article | This entry was posted by pyramid-admin on December 31, 2012 at 9:25 am, and is filed under Chronicles For Candidates. Follow any responses to this post through RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback from your own site. |
WE ARE HIRING: Social Media & Marketing Intern (Spring 2013)
Dec 27th
Pyramid Consulting Group, a multi divisional recruitment firm, is looking to add a Social Media and Marketing Intern to their department. The ideal candidate will have interest in an entrepreneurial environment and have a passion for social media.
Job Responsibilities:
- Research industry trends and news to share links via social media sites and blog posts
- Assist with daily administrative tasks and postings
- Monitor social media analytics and upkeep weekly reports
- Help brainstorm promotions and executing social media campaigns and contests
- Work on development of social media strategy for attracting new clients
- Update and maintain internal reports for marketing and social media
Job Qualifications:
- Experience using multiple social networking sites
- Excellent written communication skills with a leaning toward journalism
- Graphic design experience a plus (Photoshop experience is preferred)
- Results driven, detail oriented, consistently meet deadlines and produce high quality work
- Metrics focused with a strong drive to meet targets
- Excellent Excel and Power Point skills
Job Notes: Please note that this is an unpaid internship, but can be accepted for college credit. Please only respond if you can commit to 15-20 hours/week.
Please submit your resume to slokuta@pyramidcg.com with “Social Media & Marketing Intern” in the subject for consideration. While we appreciate all candidates only those qualified will be contacted. Thank you for your application.
| Print article | This entry was posted by pyramid-admin on December 27, 2012 at 4:37 pm, and is filed under Job Of The Day. Follow any responses to this post through RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback from your own site. |
Social Media Recommendations for Job Seekers
Dec 3rd
Job searches can become overwhelming very quickly. Social media is one of the many new buzz words surrounding job searches. The question on many seekers minds though is “how do I incorporate social media into my job search?”
First things first, review and edit your social media profiles to make sure it is appropriate for hiring managers to view. According to a study from Reppler, 90% of recruiters and hiring managers will visit a candidate’s profile on a social network in order to screen the candidate, and often (69%), recruiters will reject candidates based on what they’ve found. Do not neglect any of your profiles. If you have ones you do not use anymore do not assume employers won’t view them. Delete them and focus on your current profiles. If you Google your name and find it you can bet an employer will, too.
Once you’ve combed through your social media profiles make sure they send the message you want to convey and be consistent across all platforms. Whether it is to make connections in your industry or you’re looking for a new position, you want your profile (especially your LinkedIn headline) to easily express this message. Think about joining a discussion board on Twitter or LinkedIn or perhaps a blog. Keep this in mind: once you commit you should remain consistent, so decide a head of time how often you want to contribute.
Moving along these lines, consider an electronic resume where you add links to your LinkedIn account or personal blog or portfolio. It’s a nice way to tie in all your hard work on your social media profiles and makes it easier on the hiring managers. According to a recent survey from Career Directors International (CDI), 62% of hiring authorities would click on an external link if you provided one on your resume.
Click here to read how to effectively use Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn as a tool for job searches.
| Print article | This entry was posted by pyramid-admin on December 3, 2012 at 12:49 pm, and is filed under Job Search, Social Media. Follow any responses to this post through RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback from your own site. |
Job Searching Do’s and Don’ts
Sep 21st
There are numerous ways to go about a job search and it can easily become overwhelming. You might be thinking “Do I focus on job boards, recruiters, social media, job fairs, networking or a combination of all everything?” Remember to breathe and think strategically.
There are several factors such as the unemployment rate in your location and timing that can hinder your job search. It is important to keep this in mind and to not let these outside factors bring you down. On the other side of the spectrum, using outdated job search techniques are hindrances can easily be avoided.
The below techniques can lengthen your job search. Before you read them you should know they can be beneficial if used effectively, otherwise they are in danger of wasting your time. In other words, they are tactical rather than strategic.
- Scanning job boards daily for openings
- Applying online to everything you are remotely qualified to do
- Re-writing your resume repeatedly
- Re-designing your LinkedIn profile repeatedly
- Going to unemployment or job networking groups
- Attending job fairs
According to an article on U.S. News, there are 8 commandments for a successful job search:
- Remember: your job hunt is a job. Set up a daily work routine with work hours, an agenda and goals. Relax outside these hours so you are fresh faced for the next day.
- Keep your knowledge and skills up to date. A great way to get into this habit is to keep notes and update your resume quarterly or when you have a sizeable list.
- Stand out from your competition. When saving your resume, do a “save as” and rename it {FirstName LastName NameofCompany}. It will show the employer you aren’t sending a blind resume blast.
- Find a way to make yourself findable. Create a PDF version of your resume with a link to your LinkedIn profile, blog or portfolio.
For the rest of these commandments, click here.
| Print article | This entry was posted by pyramid-admin on September 21, 2012 at 9:22 am, and is filed under Job Search. Follow any responses to this post through RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback from your own site. |
Social Media for Job Seekers
Sep 17th
It is no surprise that there is a high demand for hiring individuals with social media skills. The growth of social media isn’t only for job seekers. A recent survey by Jobvite reported that 92% of recruiters use social media to find talent. This survey further goes on to say that 2/3 of companies now recruit through Facebook and more than half (54%) use Twitter to find new talent, while LinkedIn is remains the top social media site, used by 93%.
So when you ask yourself: “Does it really help my job hunt to join LinkedIn, create a personal website or set up a blog?” The answer is absolutely YES!
First things first, you should search your own name to see what pops up. It is important to note that recruiters may not only look at social media sites, but also any external links with information about you. When you engage in social media, the information provided should support your image and reinforce the information in your resume.
When it comes to social networking and job search, creativity thrives. If you’re seeking a job in social media, public relations, marketing or a related, check out these resumes for inspiration on how to create a modern resume and stand out from the crowd. The living resume is also something to consider. A great example of this is using Pinterest as a resume. For more information, click here.
| Print article | This entry was posted by pyramid-admin on September 17, 2012 at 11:03 am, and is filed under Job Search, Social Media. Follow any responses to this post through RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback from your own site. |
Networking: Online and Local Events
Aug 17th
U.S. unemployment and underemployment statistics are still a major issue effecting job seekers in our economy. Fortunately with the rise of social media as a job searching tool in recent years, sites such as Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter make the job hunt more accessible.
Make a list of target companies that offer roles on your projected career path. Follow them on Twitter and LinkedIn, and “like” their Facebook pages. This is a great way to stay up to date on the latest highlights, job openings and fillings. You should also check to see if you are connected to current employees at a company of interest. You may surprise yourself and discover you have a strong 3rd party connection somewhere.
It may also prove beneficial to reach out to individuals on already on your desired career path – perhaps friends of friends, college alumni, etc. Ask questions about how they arrived where they are now and advice you can follow to get there. You can also ask if they can refer you to another professional, but do not be straightforward and ask for a job on the spot. Remember, social networking is here to provide you some extra ease for connecting with business professionals and finding you a career – use it wisely.
Don’t rule out attending events in your area because you have an online presence. One on one interaction is always an added plus when networking. You have the ability to leave someone with a more memorable impression of you.
Here are some great rules when networking at an event:
- Try to avoid idle chatter. Sincere interest in the other person is the objective.
- If you want a successful event, talk your server staff, the event manager, the valet, not just the attendees.
- Try to speak positively—whether about other people, the event you’re at, or even the conversations you’re in.
- If the conversation has run its course, graciously exit. Then be the first with a follow-up email, a thank-you note, or an appreciative call.
For more rules to follow when networking, click here.
| Print article | This entry was posted by pyramid-admin on August 17, 2012 at 11:45 am, and is filed under Networking, Social Media. Follow any responses to this post through RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback from your own site. |
How to Effectively Use Your Professional Profile
Jul 23rd
It is no secret companies today look at professional online profiles. LinkedIn is the primary professional networking site, but that doesn’t mean you should neglect your other online profiles. It is up to you to update and maintain a current and professional profile. Some tips to optimize your online profile for potential employers are listed below.
- Keep it up to date – whenever you have an update, post it.
- Refresh your keywords and specialties – search online for common words that best describe what you do and use these key words organically.
- Be aware – create multiple online profiles and a personal blog and make sure they are all connected to enhance your personal search rankings.
- Get the recognition you deserve – all legitimate recognitions should be included in your profiles.
For more helpful tips on creating an attractive professional profile click here.
It is important to note recruiters are constantly seeking out passive job candidates for their highly selective corporate clients. Once you know and understand the methods recruiters utilize in their hunt, you can position yourself as the talented passive candidate they covet.
Here are four tactics recruiters use on LinkedIn specifically.
- Recruiters look for people who use the same vocabulary as their clients.
- Recruiters hunt for people who command the respect of their peers and supervisors.
- Recruiters seek experts and thought leaders.
- Recruiters scout for people wherever they can find them.
There are many other strategies you can successfully employ, but these four provide the basis to create a solid LinkedIn presence. Good luck with your job hunt!
| Print article | This entry was posted by pyramid-admin on July 23, 2012 at 9:40 am, and is filed under Social Media. Follow any responses to this post through RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback from your own site. |
Using Social Networks to Find Job Openings
Jul 2nd
Did you know a recent survey found that over one-third of U.S. companies have Facebook in their sites as the primary tool for social recruiting in 2012? Job seekers will see substantial developments in social this year.
Data from Jobscience’s research shows:
- Social recruiting isn’t going away anytime soon
- Facebook is the most important social recruiting tool behind LinkedIn
- LinkedIn is anticipated to be the most used tool for recruiting with 57 percent of respondents expecting to use the tool more than job boards, email marketing, and referral programs
- Twitter is the least important social network for recruiting
Online recruiting research lab Potentialpark found that HR professionals prefer interacting with students, graduates and early career professionals on Facebook.
- The corporate career website continues to be the hub of top employer’s talent communication online and offline
- Mobile media still has some catching up to do – only 21% of global top employers have a mobile careers websites or career related app
- Microblogging and blogs are effective niche channels
Using social networks to find candidates for current job openings has become a common strategy for recruiters. For more information on this subject, visit Jobscience’s blog. To see a list of the Top 15 in Online Talent Communications and additional statistics from Potentialpark, click here.
| Print article | This entry was posted by pyramid-admin on July 2, 2012 at 11:07 am, and is filed under Social Media. Follow any responses to this post through RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback from your own site. |
