It would not be uncommon for people from a prior generation to describe their efforts to find work in physical terms; that is, using the approach of pounding the pavement from dawn till dusk until someone offered them a job. In many cases, this was the best way to find out who was hiring because employers, particularly smaller businesses or those in smaller towns, often advertised by simply posting a sign in the window.
Job hunting would of course become more refined over time, but the process was still time-consuming as it customarily involved searching through print advertising, preparing and sending hardcopy resumes, and telephone follow-up. In addition, there was less in the way of available information on prospective employers, other than going to a library or having the good fortune to know someone who worked at the targeted company.
Today, anyone looking for employment will attest to the influence of technology on how a job search is conducted. The digital age would flabbergast those from earlier times but modern day job seekers must adapt and comply with various means used by many/most employers and staffing agencies in their recruiting/hiring processes – these can include:
- Outsourcing their hiring needs to recruitment agencies
- Utilizing software packages to scan content in resumes
- Conducting live interviews through computer interfaces
- Developing algorithms to search the web for candidates
The evolution of technology has certainly revolutionized the job hunting process from its former process of pavement-pounding. To that end, the following recommendations and suggestions are offered to help job seekers in finding employment in today’s digital age:
Use pertinent keywords in resumes/cover letters – recruitment agencies will often use software programs to screen electronically-submitted resumes and create a short-list of candidates. These programs are designed to search for relevant terms, also known as keywords, applicable to particular skills, experience, or other job-related requirements. Aligning resume content in this way can improve one’s prospects of advancing beyond the screening step.
Continually revise and update resume content – this serves two purposes:
- The preparedness to submit an accurate and up-to-date resume at any time
- Recruiters are constantly searching online sources for viable candidates, and the availability of a refreshed profile enhances the potential of attracting their interest
Take advantage of various social media platforms – when used appropriately, such platforms are a viable way of communicating and disseminating/sharing information with a potential employer, either directly or indirectly. Recruiters frequently search LinkedIn for profiles of current or future candidates, while activities such as participating in online discussion groups and following employers on Twitter can help candidates to stand above the crowd in the job search market.
Get comfortable with technology – employers may prefer to conduct interviews using Skype or webcam technology. Proficiency with such audio-visual tools allows employers to assess candidates in a more definitive fashion that reviewing their resume.
Individuals interested in learning more about job hunting in the digital age may benefit from the following article recently published in the New York Times:
Supplement Your Job Search with the Resources of a Leading Staffing Agency
Since staffing agencies are continually searching social media networks such as LinkedIn to identify potential candidates for their clients, this should not prohibit individuals from contacting these recruiters on their own behalf.
Winters Technical Staffing in Toronto has been supporting qualified candidates in their job searches for over 40 years. Throughout that time, Winters Technical Staffing has developed a respected standing as a leader within the job placement field by successfully matching candidate skills with employer needs across a number of industries, including:
- Trades
- Aerospace
- Electronics
- Engineering
- Supply Chain
- Manufacturing
The placement specialists at Winters Technical Staffing can be valuable resources for job hunters, particularly in relation to finding employment in today’s digital age; they offer the insight and guidance to effectively manage this process and the network of contacts necessary to enhance the probability of a successful search outcome.
For more information on the services provided by the consultants at Winters Technical Staffing, a leading Toronto staffing agency, visit our Services Page.
Contact Winters Today
Looking for guidance and support to help in securing employment in today’s digital age? Align your search efforts with the resources and experience of a professional recruitment agency. Call Winters Technical Staffing today at 1-877-495-7422 or contact us to request a no-obligation consultation.
