Internet Makes Job Searches Much More Complicated
By Lenny Keitel
Before the advent of the Internet, the typical job search seemed so straightforward and basic. Craft a resume, peruse the classifieds or seek out a recruiter, apply for the job and wait for the follow-up phone call or letter. Alternatively, the job-seeker might even hand-carry a resume directly to the corporate employment office and perhaps even speak to a real person.
Now, the job search is transitioning from paper resumes to online virtual resumes. Job-search components now include LinkedIn profiles, resume postings on search engines, blogs, articles and even tacky video resumes. Hiring managers have become more technically savvy and discriminating as jobs have become scarce.
Is your name clean?
With the diversity of online resources now available for both the job-seeker and hiring manager, you want to ensure that you're putting your best face forward. Is your online reputation as squeaky clean as you think it is? Bear in mind, any competent hiring manager will perform due diligence by verifying your reputation before picking up a phone to invite you for an interview.
It's a good idea for all job-seekers to make sure that there are no online blunders that just might embarrass them.
1 photo = 1,000 words
In the days before the Internet, background checks for potential candidates were performed by companies via a myriad of channels that included personal reference checks, reviewing public records and soliciting companies specializing in background investigations.
As a job-seeker, take the time to perform a simple check by entering your name on Google to see what surfaces. Additionally, by typing "image" in the Google search box, and subsequently entering your name when the image box appears, any images of you residing on the web will be displayed. A single indiscreet picture of you drinking "shooters'"at a company picnic wearing a T shirt containing profanity speaks a thousand words. Say goodbye to a potentially great position.
Check your online reputation
Today, an online name check can reveal substantial and potentially damaging information about any job applicant. Such information may include speeding tickets, your blogs (political and religious opinions), lawsuits, bankruptcy, custody issues, etc. This information could raise an eyebrow by any hiring manager.
Internet communications are prolific and increasing exponentially. Disparaging comments or images can easily compromise your reputation. Being proactive is important for monitoring and managing your online identity to ensure that your image has not been tarnished. Remember, if you can see it, so can a hiring manager. Don't have the time to periodically check your reputation? Sign up for Trackur.com.
Think before proceeding
Our reliance on the Internet to find a job will continue to escalate as we become more entwined with technology. Personal and professional lives are meshing. Consequently, what is posted online now directly impacts your image - both professional and personal.
Enjoy blogging? Think twice before pressing the enter key on your computer.
Lenny Keitel runs Hudson Valley Resumes in Monroe, NY, a premier nationwide Resume Writing Service with a penchant for crafting compelling resumes that motivate the hiring manager through its inspirational content, clarity, and visual appeal. Contact us for a free copy of our 'Interview Tune-Up Guide'.
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