A Guest Post by Vera Marie Reed
Job hunting in the digital age is not just about the paper resume. No one cares if your resume is on card stock with a jazzy objective because employers are going online. They’re looking at more than just the careful face you put forward. As the infograph below highlights, potential employers are tracking your digital reputation, resumes, and video interviews to determine if you are a good fit for their culture.
Reputation
For those in the midst of a job search process, keep a keen eye on the persona you display online. Seventy-five percent of employers say they research potential applicants online before making contact. If your personal networking sites contain less than professional posts and you constantly share objectionable content, consider not using your real name. We all know our online personas don’t always reflect our actual personalities. Separating yourself in real life from an exaggerated digital version of yourself may help you get passed the first round of rejections from a potential employer.
If you don’t have one, setup a LinkedIn account. This site is geared toward a more professional side of you and employers also use this site to evaluate your background. Complete your profile and make sure your experience and educational background accurately reflects your work history. You don’t want to miss out on potential opportunities from employers who scan LinkedIn for prospects.
Resumes
Video resumes are all the rage now. This is a creative way to make your application stand out. There is, however, a right and wrong way to approach this strategy. Make sure you practice your script, dress appropriately for the job in question, and record without background noise or other visual distractions in your camera’s view.
Video Interviews
These come in two flavors – conversation and one-way videos. In either case, you want to practice with a friend. Make sure you have proper posture. Pay attention to proper grooming and make sure you have the correct equipment and connections to ensure a smooth and professional interview.
Info Graph
