Though we are well into the new millennium, we are still being surprised by innovative technologies that surface almost everyday. And many of them transfer very effectively into the work world, affording us opportunities to restructure the way we conduct job searches.
This means it is a good idea to learn some of the new ways to seek jobs. That way, you can keep up with, and even surpass your competition.
Web Portfolios and Video Resumes
Web portfolios are becoming popular vehicles for obtaining employment because they offer easy to read, attractive, electronic versions of your resume. They are especially useful for candidates working in web design, writing or artwork; however, anyone can take advantage of them. Typically, they showcase screenshots of designs, links to a working page, and a description of the work being displayed. There are websites dedicated to helping individuals create them in order to post the work and send links to employers.
Video resumes, while not as popular or highly accepted by recruiters, are another way for job candidates to spice up what was once simply a dull piece of paper. Posted on sites like YouTube, candidates use these resumes to verbally list their skills, talents and capabilities. After creating the video, they send the link to potential employers. However, before you decide to take this route however, conduct research to make sure this type of resume is acceptable in your field.
Job Blogging and Social Networking
Along with creating video resumes and web portfolios come two more vehicles of online job seeking: job blogging and social networking. You are probably familiar with the concept of social networking by now if you have a Myspace of Facebook page. On both websites you can either communicate with your friends or set up a page that lends itself to your professional side. But social networks now do even more. They also allow you to get on message boards where recruiters often frequent, and network with other individuals in your field.
Since some recruiters take the extra steps to locate candidates via the Internet, it’s not a bad idea to also set up your own blog that tracks your job search and markets your skills. Just ensure that if you’re trying to have a professional online presence, you either don’t create or make “private” any profiles listed under your full name that may be inappropriate for business. For more information on how to blog responsibly, you can visit EFF.com
The Behavioral Interview
While not technology based, the behavioral interview is becoming a popular format employers are using to gather more information about job candidates. The interview is handled in person like the traditional interview; however differences lie in the types of questions being asked. For instance, instead of being asked “What are your strengths and weaknesses as an employee?” you might be asked “What is a specific example of an occasion where you were called upon to solve a problem? And how did you solve it?” The latter questions explore exact behaviors in specific situations, and give more insight into your day to day abilities.
Staying on top of what’s going on in the world of job seeking is very important. So try to find out more. You’ll be surprised by the exposure and access to opportunities you’ll acquire.
Heather Eagar is a former professional resume writer and is passionate about providing working professionals with current, reliable and effective job search tools and information. If you need a resume writer, compare the top ones in the industry at http://www.resumelines.com.
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