Kevin Wheeler, President of Global Learning Resources, Inc, had an interesting article how to use Social Networks to more effectively recruit.
Kevin points out that we don’t have to be confined by the existing social networks. We can shape our social network to acquire the specific types of candidates we want, and the specific skills and competencies those people need. This enables us to focus on our brand and build awareness of your company and the kind of jobs you offer.
A Social Network from a recruiting perspective should be a pool of potential candidates, or a community of talent. It’s ever changing, expanding network of people who have chosen to associate with one another. This is significantly different than a static database.
Why rely on established social networks. Create your own. It will give you better results and more impact. The purpose of creating a social network is to bring the best people into your innermost circle. Build the relationship through frequent communication.
Ning is a free social network that provides some level of customization. There are others. Still others can be built from scratch by using open source tools and modules. When you build your own social network you can build in tests, require certain information, or in many ways decide is someone is the right person for your organization, thus eliminating hundreds of unqualified people saving time.
Candidates are stressed and unhappy with the employment process provided by most employers.
What do candidates look for?
Candidates want to work for organizations that are responsive and friendly. They want companies that can showcase their talents. Candidates are pleased to be invited to a social networking community that has common career interests with them. Candidates appreciate quickly knowing if they “fit” or not.
If you are in the planning stages for next year, set aside some of your budget to explore creating your own branded social network. You might be surprised at how well it works and at how it creates a far more efficient and candidate friendly environment than you probably have today.
To read Kevin Wheeler’s entire article:
http://www.ere.net/2009/10/22/leverage-your-own-social-network/#more-10415
