New Job, New Tricks: Social Networking and the Job Search for Baby Boomers
In the new world of technology, it’s very common for job
seekers to work via the Internet to find their employment. This is
mainly because many employers have moved their application
processes to the Internet – as well as their headhunters. In
other words, if you want to find employment, your best bet is to do
it online.
This is just as true for Baby Boomers as it is the younger
generation, which is why some Baby Boomers are considering popular
avenues to get their names out there, including social networking
sites. If you have been thinking about social networking as an
avenue for job seeking, consider a few benefits of doing so.
Recruiters Often Visit Social Networking Sites
First
As mentioned previously, the new age of technology has brought
about a lot of changes in regards to job searches. As a result,
many companies are taking advantage of modern-day technologies to
recruit and accept applications from candidates. Because social
networking sites like Facebook and LinkedIn have been created for
the purpose of connecting with individuals and businesses, many
headhunters and recruiters are taking advantage of these avenues to
quickly review candidates’ qualifications with the hopes of
finding that needle in the haystack.
It’s for this reason that experts suggest that Baby
Boomers also take advantage of social networking. With job losses
on the rise, there isn’t much out there, which means all
candidates can use any edge they can get their hands on. Because
social networking allows individuals to showcase their experience
and even garner recommendations right on their pages (ie.
LinkedIn’s recommendation system), Baby Boomers may find that
the jobs their looking for may show up at their doorstep.
There are Even Sites for Higher-Level
Professionals
For those who feel that social networking may not help them
acquire the high-level employment opportunities they’re
looking for, there are options in this realm. For instance,
ExecuNet is a website that was created for leaders in the workplace
(directors, VPs, CEOs). Members who join are able to connect with
other members looking for employment through forums. They are also
able to connect with recruiters looking for talented candidates.
The site also offers business and career advice, and only helps
promote positions paying $150K or higher.
The Financial Executives Network Group (FENG) is another site
geared toward recruiting high-level professionals, mostly at the
CEO or CFO level in the financial industries. Those who join as
members (membership is free) are allowed to communicate with each
other on financial job leads.
Just Be Careful
While social networking is an incredible vehicle for finding
great job opportunities, putting your personal information on the
Internet has inherent dangers. One is that you never know what
predators are viewing your personal details. Another is that your
information may stay out in cyberspace longer than you would like.
So as you post your details, choose your information carefully.
Also, be aware that first impressions mean everything, so be
careful what details about your life you share.
Baby Boomers sometimes feel crippled by their lack of
proficiency with the new age of job searching. But they don’t
have to. If you are a Baby Boomer and feel it’s time to kick
your job search into high gear, consider social networking as a
route to take.
© 2009
