Can Facebook get you a job?

Normally, people think of websites like Facebook and MySpace as the virtual scene to post pictures from spring break or parties and communicate with friends. But, did you know that these sites might get you your new job?


In a recent article, “Status: Looking for work on Facebook”, Stephanie Rosenbloom expresses that employers are using networking sites more in terms of seeking potential candidates. This article interests me because it brings a new aspect of these sites. Marilyn Mackes, an executive director of the National Association of Colleges and Employers, comments that in the past employers were only interested in viewing profiles of who might work for them, but now, “more than half will use the sites to network with potential candidates”.


The article also references several employers and executives who say that the ease of using Facebook and the informality of it allows for a more comfortable and possibly fun experience. More employers, at least for the time being, favor using business sites, like LinkedIn, over social-networking sites. On the other hand, Leila Hebden, whose career is in music management, favors MySpace’s casualness in networking. Music executives even search through social sites, not only finding future singers and musicians, but also promoting themselves, witch would benefit the industry.


Employers are currently taking advantage of the social sites, with real success. Although I do not see myself using Facebook to find my dream job, it is still good to see a different use and people benefiting from this. Perhaps in the future, social networks may have a search feature enabling employers to seamlessly find candidates interested in their field.