Minnesota Ag Connection - Survey Finds Online Presence Important in Hiring Process

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Survey Finds Online Presence Important in Hiring Process
Minnesota Ag Connection - 10/21/2016

In today's highly digital world, it's becoming increasingly important to have a strong online brand -- no matter your occupation or field of interest. In fact, Rasmussen College, a regionally accredited private college, found in a recent Employer and Student Survey that around 33 percent of employers research a job candidate's online presence during the hiring process.

The College will host 15 free Community Career Fairs nationwide through Nov. 2 to help community members, students and graduates build their online brands and advance their job seeking skills. Attendees will gain access to career experts and local employers with open positions. Events will include networking with potential employers, LinkedIn and resume consultations, mock interviews and professional dress advice.

The survey found that most employers are looking at a candidate's online brand upon review of a job application (27 percent) or after an interview (27 percent). Another seven percent of employers surveyed indicated they don't have a standard practice but they do look.

The primary social media networks potential employers are reviewing when looking at a candidate's online presence are LinkedIn (72 percent) and Facebook (54 percent). While most job-seekers responded that they believe employers are reviewing their posts (80 percent) and images (80 percent), employers revealed that they are looking more at posts (59 percent) and groups (51 percent).

"It's important for job seekers to remember their online content and affiliations reflect their offline brand," said Lamont Allen, assistant vice president of student affairs and career services at Rasmussen College. "We encourage job seekers to review their social content before submitting their next application to ensure their professional and personal achievements, memberships and special skills are showcased and represented appropriately. Your online brand may be the first impression or the final handshake for your dream job. So make sure it tells the story you want to share."

Many Rasmussen College Community Career Fair events will provide LinkedIn training as well as free professional headshots. For a complete list of Community Career Fair events and to view a list of employers at a fair in your area, please visit www.rasmussen.edu/student-life/events/careerfair/. To learn more about the Rasmussen College Employer and Student Survey, please visit www.rasmussen.edu/student-life/.

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