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 have arisen in the Digital Age, creating an opportunity for employees and employers to connect via the Internet.
Job Hunting in the Digital Age
- When entering the job market, it is vital to have a comprehensive resume ready to show a potential employer. Creating a professional image that blends with the personal is one of the major advantages that comes with the online resume site, LinkedIn.
Professional and Social Connectivity
- According to mashable.com, "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).
Benefits of LinkedIn
The LinkedIn site says that creating an account gives the individual an opportunity to
- "Re-connect [with] past and present colleagues and classmates."
- "Power your career" by discovering "inside connections when you're looking for a new job or business opportunity.”
- "Get answers" by taking advantage of the "industry experts willing to share advice."
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.
Resume Types & Tips
- There are several different types of resumes, outlined by __________ in __________. A resume must be relevant and professional in order to obtain a good job. No matter what type of resume is chosen, it is vital that relevant and up-to-date contact information is provided. This includes a cell phone number, and an email address that is checked at least once a day. Resumes, especially online resumes, should follow the criteria outlined in Good Writing.
Chronological
This type of resume is ideal for a person with an extensive job history. Guerry says that chronological resumes:
- Are popular with recruiters
- Quickly reveal candidates education and experience
- Show steady career growth & experience in field
- Are not ideal for recent college graduates who do not have a lot of job experience
Functional
A functional resume is good for a candidate who has little employment experience. A functional resume:
- Showcases skills, rather than past employment
- Groups skills and accomplishments
- Takes away the negative connotation of a spotty or weak employment history
Combination
A combination of the aspects of functional and chronolgical resumes, this type of resume is good for a recent graduate who has a bit of job experience. A combination resume:
- Emphasizes abilities and job history
- Is a good choice for recent graduate
- Exemplifies skill sets targeted to job description of choice
References
Fiegerman, Seth. "LinkedIn Now Has 187 Million Members." mashable. Mashable, Inc., 1 Nov 2012. Web. 3 Nov 2012.
"What is LinkedIn?" LinkedIn. LinkedIn Corporation, Inc., nd, Web. 1 Nov 2012.