Using Social Networks to get hired.

The Society of Human Resource Management conducted a study recently that found 95%  of respondent organizations used (or would use) LinkedIn for Recruitment in 2011. The use of this and other social networks for passive searching (searching for people who may not be currently looking for jobs) is up to 72%.

Moral of the story... if you are not using LinkedIn yet you should. Keep in mind, however, that you want a profile as complete as possible. Don't just stop at the basic resume type information, make connections to people you know in the industry you would like to work in. Join groups for that industry(ies) and contribute your ideas. In this way you will begin to be noticed by people in the industry, and hopefully make a positive impression. If possible get recommendations from former employers and colleagues. These steps won't necessarily garner a job, but when the next company you apply to searches they should find a more positive image of you than if you have no profile or an incomplete profile.