Social Networking in HR: Why It Will Continue to Be Relevant & How It Can Help You

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Network, network, network! If you work in recruiting, this word is probably ingrained in your head. You might even be getting sick of it. Granted: the word “networking” has gotten…cliché. And in today’s technological age, social network Websites are what you call: “king.” So yes, the word’s used A LOT. That said, it’s a popular term for good reason. Most likely, we all get its primary benefit: Develop contacts; expand opportunities—pretty simple. There’s a lot more benefits than this though— and not all of them are as obvious as you’d expect. Want to learn more? Read on as I outline some distinct ways that social networks can make your employee sourcing a lot easier (and quickly!):

Screen talent prospects from a centralized database. Free online resources like Linkedin let TA professionals search among countless prospects using very specific criteria, including industry, job title, and employer –all at no cost. As you view individual profiles, you have ready access to their employment history, education background, career specialties, and other relevant information. With so much data at your fingertips, the initial screening of applicants has become considerably less time-consuming for recruiters. Who doesn’t want more time in their day—especially when it can be spent driving other OD priorities.

Check references and find referrals: It’s now easier than ever! Who needs phones to source talent? Instead –leverage social network forums. TA specialists can use resources such as Linkedin and Facebook to find connected individuals who have worked alongside candidates whom you’re considering. Receiving applicant references from trusted connections helps ensure you receive unbiased feedback with regards to prospective job candidates. On another, it’s also just as easy to seek out employee referrals from connections in your field –removing even more burden previously associated with talent sourcing.

Meet new and eclectic individuals. While it’s always nice to make new connections, it’s especially helpful when these people are accomplished experts in your chosen field. By making as many connections as possible, you can connect with people who can offer valuable insight to inspire your own career. You can bounce ideas off industry leaders, learn from others’ mistakes, find mentors, and the list goes on. Knowing lots of people certainly can never hurt, and in many cases it makes the difference between being good and being great in your career.