Our Spotlight! is shining brightly on a scenario created by a dedicated Career Agent, a grateful jobseeker, and a strategic “e-source” growing in use among KRA Corporation programs across the country—accessing social networking sites (SNS) to assist customers in finding, applying for—and getting jobs!
A 2014 survey, conducted by the Society for Human Resource Management, found that 77% of organizations use SNS for recruitment—compared to 56% in 2011, and 34% in 2008. Also, 55% of employers say they plan to increase SNS outreach to tap qualified candidates. Yet, on their own, only 29% of jobseekers are using SNS as their primary tool for job searching.
Increasingly, Career Agents, like Zuri Williams, San Diego Metro Region Career Centers—operated by KRA for the San Diego Workforce Partnership—are encouraging and assisting customers to create a “professional brand”, build a strategic online presence, and maximize SNS for job searching and career building.
Recently, Zuri submitted a SNS-success story—with a twist. “I discovered an opportunity on LinkedIn, and during my inquiry about the posting, the employer asked me to apply for the position! I told them I already had my dream job, asked if I could refer a customer, and they agreed! Identifying any opportunity on a SNS is just the beginning. If a responder grabs the employer’s attention, they better be totally interview-ready, which ‘Sarah’ was!”
Soon, Diana Wong, Social Media Coordinator, received a letter, the essence of which was:
“I am writing to express my gratitude for the commitment demonstrated by the KRA San Diego staff during my job search. Zuri Williams’ caring personality allowed me to open up and really express my career goals and interests; Terrance Bowens expertly edited and revised my resume; and James Caraballo prepared me for interviews—role playing different situations and ‘testing’ me with in-depth questions.
Because of Zuri’s guidance and James’ and Terrance’s preparation, after only a month, I found employment with a family services organization as an Employment Specialist—an opportunity that would not have presented itself without their commitment, passion, and love for their work. They are truly an asset to the KRA staff and to the San Diego community.
Any jobseeker lucky enough to work with them will have a wonderful outcome. So to Zuri, Terrance, and James, ‘thank you’ for all you have done for me, and please continue creating life opportunities for those in need.”
Read more about KRA/San Diego on LinkedIn