Social Networking Explodes As Job-Search Tool, but Pitfalls Abound
Jump 1: Social Site Use, Especially by Businesses, Is Up Since 2007
-- Challenger, Gray & Christmas, Inc.

Social Site Use, Especially by Businesses, Is Up Since 2007

“The job search has changed radically over the past two decades with the advent of electronic mail, the Internet, social networking, smart phones, etc. However, it is important to remember that all of these technologies simply enhance the job search; they will never replace the face-to-face connections that are critical to a successful search,” said John A. Challenger, chief executive officer of global outplacement consultancy Challenger, Gray & Christmas, Inc. “That being said, we feel that these new networking tools are essential and now advise all of the job seekers going through our program to open LinkedIn accounts and to consider other services such as Facebook and Twitter,” said Challenger.

The number of Americans belonging to social networking sites has grown exponentially in the past five years. It is now estimated that 51 percent of online U.S. adults utilize social networking sites such as Facebook or LinkedIn, according to a recent survey by Forrester Research. That is up from the 25 percent of users who reported using social networking sites in 2007.

One reason the number of social networkers is on the rise is due to increased use among business professionals. In fact, the most rapidly growing age group represented on Facebook is the 35-and-older population. Meanwhile, a study from the Pew Internet & American Life Project reveals that 19 percent of Internet users are sharing personal and business updates on Twitter or other status-update services, up from 11 percent earlier this year.

“Social networking is an easy way for job seekers to build their network by reaching out to former colleagues and classmates, as well as fellow alumni and industry professionals. Job seekers can then use their networks to uncover available positions and to establish relationships with hiring managers or contacts who can give them a recommendation,” said Challenger.

“Just a few years ago, job seekers’ only search tools were newspapers and cold calls. Now, technology serves to instantly connect seekers with employers, recruiters and job leads.”

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