In addition to changing the ways in which people read, write, and gather information, the Digital Age has changed the job market. A number of online resume sites like Visual CV have arisen in the Digital Age, creating an opportunity for employees and employers to connect via the Internet. Hannah Morgan[1] comments on the value of using LinkedIn. She says, "Reaching far beyond the capacity of just a website for resumes, LinkedIn serves as a platform where people can communicate on a social and professional level, advancing their interests and opportunities in the process."
Job Hunting in the Digital Age
Creating a professional image that blends with the personal is one of the major advantages that the online networking site LinkedInhas to offer. Through LinkedIn, prospective and current employees can connect with each other, as well as with other people in their respective industries. This creates an opportunity to build a network, which is a vital part of obtaining and maintaining a successful career.
Professional and Social Connectivity
According to Seth Fiegerman[2], "The social network for professionals has been growing at a rate of 10-15 million users per quarter.” As of November, the site boasts over 187 million members. While this may seem like an overwhelming amount of users, LinkedIn can be seen as a close-knit online community when compared with the amount of users on Facebook and Twitter (over a billion each). Unlike other social media sites, LinkedIn has a targeted membership: professional individuals, or people who are ready to enter the professional job market.
What is Linked In?
Features
Skills and Expertise
- Users enter their skills into a search box, and related skills are shown.
- This feature allows users to view other skills, and gives an opportunity to brush up on other skills that may be useful in the career field of their choice.
Groups and Answers
- Employees can seek help in answering business questions by linking with other business associates in the industry.
Today’s News
- LinkedIn users have easy access to news related to their industries.
- This gives users an important tool: relevant information about the industry that can be shared with co-workers and superiors.
Influencers
- The “Influencers” section follows industry leaders.
- It is important for users to know who’s who in the industry.
Endorsements
- Colleagues can assist each other by giving, and receiving, good recommendations.
Resume Builder
- LinkedIn's newest feature, a resume builder, incorporates user's information into a resume format.
- The feature offers various resume styles that fit the user's skills, career field, and expertise.
- The benefits of a cohesive resume are outlined in VisualCV.
References
Fiegerman, Seth. "LinkedIn Now Has 187 Million Members." mashable. Mashable, Inc., 1 Nov 2012. Web. 3 Nov 2012.
Morgan, Hannah. "8 Ways to Amp Up Your Career Using LinkedIn." US News. U.S.News & World Report, 14 Nov 2012. Web. 14 Nov 2012.
"What is LinkedIn?" LinkedIn. LinkedIn Corporation, Inc., nd, Web. 1 Nov 2012.