WEB 2.0 AND RECRUITING

As an HR Manager I've interviewed and hired over 5,000 people. I've conducted interviews at college campuses in a number of states - Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Texas, California, Illinois, Wisconsin, Ohio, New York, and South Carolina. And, I've never had an applicant send me a link to their professional electronic portfolio (e-port). Not one. Does that mean they are not helpful? Absolutly not. Maybe they are more prevelant in certain environments, such as education, but that doesn't mean you should ignore this important tool.

If you have an e-port or can develop one you are in a much better position than the other applicants you compete against. Think about it. If I interview 10 applicants for a position and only one has an an e-port, that person has a distinct advantage. A well done e-port can make your work history, knowledge, skills and abilities come alive.

Before you advertise your e-port make sure you get several people to review it and give you honest feedback. You need someone more like American Idol's Simon Cowell instead of someone like Paula Abdule to give you feedback. Paula might say nice things and make you feel good, but will that feedback make your e-port better?

A well done e-port can be a great tool in your job search. If you want me to give you feedback on your e-port send me the link. Good luck in your job search.