Social Networking: How Job Seekers Can Get the Edge

EATONTOWN, NJ, December 17, 2010 (Press-News.org) From finding available positions to acing interviews, the employment process is challenging for job seekers in today's economic environment. With a high number of candidates applying for few open positions, applicants need ways to stand apart from other job contenders. Snelling Staffing - The Wyckoff Group (TWG), a staffing firm that works with local hiring managers, reports that social networking can give job seekers the edge in today's competitive economy.

"More and more companies are integrating social media into their business operations," says Frank Wyckoff, President of Snelling Staffing - TWG. "This gives applicants more opportunities to learn about hiring companies, connect with decision makers and help their career advancement."

Wyckoff explains ways social media can assist job seekers:

Laying the Groundwork - If you are having difficulty finding a position, social networking sites can help you contact the right people. For example, candidates can build a complete profile on LinkedIn and use it as an online introduction to decision makers. By utilizing the advanced search function and joining groups in your industry, you can connect with hiring authorities, recruiters and staffing managers. Additionally, there are Facebook and Twitter pages dedicated to providing employment tips and posting local job opportunities.

Researching the Company - If an employer offers you an interview, it's your responsibility to research the organization as thoroughly as possible. In addition to checking out the company's website, follow the organization on Facebook and Twitter and read their blog. Information they post will help you learn more about the business' brand. Studying the LinkedIn profiles of possible interviewers will also help you find out more information that you can use during your interview. Who knows, your interviewer may have gone to the same high school as you or knows your cousin.

Keeping up with Industry News - Use social media to stay current with relevant topics that affect your field. For example, trade and industry blogs will indicate important trends in your industry and point out new skills you may need to develop to further help your professional growth.

The Double-Edged Sword - If you're viewing companies on social media sites, it also means they can view you. Make sure everything on your social media profiles is professional. To play it on the safe side, use strict privacy settings to make sure you keep your personal life private.

"There are many ways job seekers can use social media to improve their career outlook," adds Wyckoff. "It's important for applicants to think of social networking as a professional tool."

Local businesses use Snelling Staffing to contract qualified people in a diverse range of positions, including Administrative, Clerical, Light Industrial, Accounting & Finance, Legal and Biopharmaceutical work. Businesses from almost every industry use Snelling to find talented and qualified employees for both temporary and career positions.

The Wyckoff Group is a national company comprised of Snelling offices with emphasis in the following areas: Eatontown, East Brunswick, Freehold and Lakewood, New Jersey, King of Prussia and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Brunswick, Georgia and Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, Florida.

For more information about Snelling Staffing - TWG, please visit http://www.snellingnj.com or call 732.389.0300.

About Snelling Staffing Services

Snelling Staffing Services is a full service staffing firm offering Temporary, Temp-to-Hire, Career Placement, Executive Recruiting and Consulting Services. Local businesses use Snelling to contract qualified individuals in a diverse range of positions including Administrative, Clerical, Light Industrial, Accounting & Finance, Legal and Biopharmaceutical work. The Wyckoff Group is a national company comprised of Snelling offices with emphasis in the following areas: Eatontown, East Brunswick, Freehold and Lakewood, New Jersey, King of Prussia and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Brunswick, Georgia and Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, Florida. We have the people, expertise, network and resources to help you meet your business, professional and career goals. For more information, please call 732.389.0300 or visit http://www.snellingnj.com.