beyond.com bug
Keywords:

Article title or keywords
Category:

Select an article category
Article Search Directory

The Duel – Facebook vs. LinkedIN

Posted By: Phil Rosenberg In: Networking
Which is better for your job search, Facebook or LinkedIN? The case for LinkedIN:
Which is better for your job search, Facebook or LinkedIN?

The case for LinkedIN:

Strengths:

  • LinkedIN allows you to build a massive network, and allows you to limited contact with any other user directly through its InMail feature
  • You see 3 degrees of separation
  • LinkedIN has a widget that allows you to superimpose your network over Monster and CareerBuilder ads – so you can reach line managers and bypass HR.
  • LinkedIN has a similar widget to superimpose mini profiles over Outlook emails
  • The LinkedIN Answers is a great way to find your audience, and participate in discussions

Weaknesses:

  • It’s tough to broadcast messages to groups in LinkedIN, or to make messages viral
  • Yahoo groups are stronger and more functional than LinkedIN groups
  • LinkedIN is built to acquire a network, more than for communicating with a network
  • Communication with LinkedIN contacts are best done through good old email, after initial LinkedIN introduction
  • LinkedIN doesn’t coordinate well with blogs, nor have customizable apps…but we are told these are coming soon

The case for FaceBook:
Strengths:

  • FaceBook is built for better communication within FaceBook. It’s easy to stay in contact with your network without jumping to outside email apps
  • On Facebook, you can directly email anyone, even if you aren’t connected to them
  • FaceBook has thousands of customizable apps, allowing recommendations, 2nd degree of separation, CRM like features, business cards
  • FaceBook has customizable control to allow (or block) access to your information by group or individual (so you can block all your job search information from people within your company)
  • FaceBook has viral messaging features, which is great for spreading the word
  • FaceBook is excellent in blog integration, photo sharing and tagging, video sharing, and groups. Facebook integrates well with Flickr & YouTube
  • 68 million members and growing…fast. It’s 3x the size of LinkedIN

Weaknesses:

  • FaceBook is over-sensitive to spam, to the point of being ridiculous. If you template introductions, your account gets flagged at about 10 intro emails per a day. However, if you send friend requests without a note, it’s not considered spam. Go figure…
  • FaceBook recommendations, questions/answers are still weak, due to low adoption rates
  • FaceBook still has a social atmosphere, which means you’ll have friends that send cutsey messages to all of their friends…3 times a day. But you can block this feature
  • FaceBook really only gives you 1 level of separation, you can get to a second level with heavy lifting through a FaceBook app
  • Others can send you pictures, or add pics to your photo album. This means you have to regularly manage your online reputation, especially your public profile and photo album.

Common to Both:

  • Both LinkedIN & Facebook have solid job boards
  • Both have a status feature that lets you broadcast one-line status texts, like a built in Twittr
  • Both have voice integration with Skype and Jaxtr
  • Both are great for catching up with old classmates, or co-workers from past lives.
  • Both have introduction features
  • Neither has an easy integration of multiple social networks, phone or email lists, or contact management. Everything has to be exported and manipulated in Outlook, so it’s very limited, time consuming, & tricky

Summary:
Both are winners, and a winning strategy is to use both, because they each have their strengths in helping you build your network and subject matter expertise.
 
What do you think?
Please complete the form below to submit a comment on this article. A valid email address is required to submit a comment though it will not be displayed on the site.

Comments
Posted by: Mickey C
I am getting ?very discouraged as the weeks go on. I feel that I have done everything right on networking as well as going to the local Job Agencies around my city. (4 agencies so far). Only 2 will give me their full attention when I call. Who do we call for a f/u when filling out an application on the internet and get an automated email stating we have received your application, please do not respond the to this email we get back to you in the near future. ?Yea right!! Hoping that the Agencies will do a better job than networking at this point. ?Thanks for letting me vent. ?Good luck to all of you.
Posted by: BARBARA D.
Wow I thought it was just me,or maybe just a few more good people who are unable to successfully tap into the job market.  Where are the jobs?  Who gets all the jobs that are posted day after day?  I wonder are they actually hiring people for these positions, because the same jobs are being posted over and over again.
Posted by: Eric j.
I have been out of work for 3 months. I am frustrated in Fresno, Ca because I have the experience in warehousing and their are some jobs out there but no one will give me a chance. I just need that one opportunity that will pay me more than minimum wage.
Posted by: Christopher F.
The above comments are great, but the truth is people always deserve the best of opportunities, but habits, actions and attitudes don't change overnight. Sometimes its painful to change and sometimes many don't want to pay or take action to change. As an individual, it is prudent to review, investigate, be cautious, and take needed time to make sure ones background and credentials are true to whats been put forth. You can not change or fix what others have done but you can fix what you do or have done. Be alert, on guard, defensive, self controlled, always giving a chance but always cautious. You must always have a history for proven compliance. Always allow time, never quit, never give up hope. Redirect, refocus, retrain, move on and don't let the past affect the future. If you have a passion, you can do it. Always look for the best and positive actions for positive success. Believe in yourself, no matter where you are at & what is going on, to make changes in your own life & actions for successful direction. Be All You Can Be! One Day At A Time! Today
Posted by: Judith
That’s not just logic. That’s really sensible.
Posted by: John DeVincent
For those who are struggling with long-term unemployment, I recommend finding a volunteer position that is as close to your field or line of work as possible or that is offered by a company you would like to work for.  Many social, healthcare, youth and community organizations rely heavily on volunteers, but these same places typically also have employees.  If you can't get hired there or there are no openings, look into volunteering there.  You can find volunteer opportunities at serve.gov and volunteermatch.org or in the classifieds of your local paper.  Not only will it give you something productive to do with your time, but it can give you connections and something to put on your resume so the gap in employment is not as long and so you don't fall prey to the depression and burnout of joblessness.  Employers or agencies that use volunteers often hire new employees from their volunteer pool, whose work habits, skills and "fit" are already known.  You will see your confidence and self-esteem return too, making you more attractive to hire.  When I was out of work in the past for a long time, I did that and soon had two job offers competing for me. When the universe does not provide, provide for the universe and it will come back to you.
Posted by: Kathleen Sacco
For the person in healthcare field w/o a job, you must go to agencies. May not be the ideal job at first but make contacts. It is a small world in that field and HUGE turnover. I just got out and am dying to get back with engineering or mfg people. I am a Sr. computer programmer who is now lucky to get temp administrative assistant jobs because they now require degrees to even get interviews in the field I worked in for 30yrs.
Posted by: Evangeline
Thanks and blessings on all who have shared. I along with many of you are in the same boat with 40 years of work as an administrative assistant and meeting planner.  Thanks to Barry for suggesting "independent" type work.  I really believe this is an option for a lot of us, so I want to second the idea and thanks for encouraging me onward in this direction and I hope others also!
Posted by: JASON B.
I have read all those comments,and i fell sad because, we are citizens of the us, that have kids to feed ,bills to pay and not to mention rent.
Posted by: Diane
I have read all of the postings here, and I feel that I am in the same boat as most of the people here. I have been unemployed since April, 2010 after being laid off from a temp position when the place I was temping for hired a permanent replacement. I have been sending resumes and cover letters out at a rate averaging 20/day. I am also an "older" worker with contracts management experience going back to 1992. I am still trying however to get an interview but at the rate of one interview/month since being unemployed, it is a bit discouraging.Thanks
Posted by: Barry C.
Hello Phil, I read your blog regarding all the hardship cases. My personal experience I think people need to start learning to be independent. These people have some good skills with a little fine tuning they can learn to do consulting, freelancing, contracting, own small businesses you may not make the money you use too but learning to be truly free is a blessing not a curse this is called freeing the mind from limitations Good luck Happy New Year
Posted by: Stephen Semales
I am an unemployed Radiology Technologist(X-Ray Tecnician). I've been out of work since May of 2010. I really believe I was let go because I'm aging, not what they said I was excused for. I have more than 200 applications with resumes and cover letters out. I served in the US Navy for more than 20 years. Does anyone know where there is a job for me? Thanks,Steve
Posted by: Kim Ray
I was just let go of a job I was at for 7 years. I have worked as an Office Manager, Property Administrator and Administrative Assistant for over 20 years and I am a Veteran, Army. I decided I am going back to school and I signed up for ITT-Tech, Electronic Engineering. I want a challenge. We all have good qualities and will make it. Good luck to us all.
Posted by: Morgan
June: Have you worked with any of the post-military recuiting agencies? I have used Bradley-Morris, Orion and Lucas group successfully. You have a degree, military experience, and you're willing to work. Try Bradley-Morris, and consider moving to the new job location. Many employers will help you move. Good Luck!
Posted by: Ryan S.
I find that LinkedIn is set up more for the business professionals to network, whereas, Facebook works for personal use to connect with family and friends.  I have been unemployed for over 6 months.  I always want to direct prospective employers to my LinkedIn profile; especially to view the recommendations I have received from other business professionals.
Posted by: Don
With more 20 years progressive warehouse experience. the last 15 in management I have found the common response to my resume' being "your overqualified" which is a PC way of saying your to old?? I find the social networking to be unproductive as of yet. I have been unemployed now for 19 months. With no prospects on the horizon. I wish the best to all in this sinking boat.
Posted by: Chrystal C.
It is (not) good to hear so many are in the same boat as I am. I too have been looking for a job since January of this year. It is hard to stay motivated after so many dead end interviews and you do start to question yourself on all levels.  I agree that our politicians are out of touch with the reality and I hope that it doesn't take an onslaught of homelessness.
Posted by: Susan C.
Paula,My position was eliminated 2 1/2 years ago.  I too wonder if one of my former co-workers has black-balled me, since she now manages the department I worked in at the time.  I am 54 and have been told that I might be bored with a job, or they are looking for someone with less experience.  I am to the place where being under-employed would be wonderful!  Good Luck!
Posted by: Jack S.
This is for Issak. Look into getting your Felony sealed or expunged. When you fill out most applications they will possibly state that if your felony is sealed or expunged you do not have to answer yes to that question. Call an attorney in your area that has to do with the type on charge it is or call you attorney that handled your case. They can do it for you, for a fee, but it's worth it to be able to answer no to that question. Some may not be able to be done but at least try.
Posted by: MARG J
Before my "secure" position was eliminated, I did not think much about those who were unemployed. However, after 28 years with my company where I was passionate and serious about my work, I was laid off at the age of 59.This followed the best job evaluation that I have ever gotten. I, too have sent out resumes and have had some interviews that have turned out to be dead ends--you know the statements-- "We've decided to go in another direction", "We're looking for someone less experienced" or no reply.I will not give up, but feel that I may not get another meaningful job and I will not have the time to make up the money/time I've lost. Most of the people in my job groups are older (some younger) and it appears that the very people who took the companies to the top were held in contempt by the companies and released. The young people on the other hand can't get into the system. I do not know what it will take for our politicians to wake up and act on the abusive and mean practices regularly occurring in the workplace. Maybe they have no vested interest in this because they are well taken care of and so out of touch. (Some of them feel that all people on Unemployment should undergo mandatory drug testing). One thing that can be useful to those unemployed is to perform volunteer work that is close to their specialty. I know people who have landed jobs after they volunteered for hospitals. Good luck to all. This situation did not come to stay, but it will come to pass.
Posted by: Michael D.
I have been out of work or underemployed for several years now. As for my job search, I think these HR types are hypercritical nowadays, and are 20-something inexperienced know nothing kids, too.
Posted by: Kim
To Issac: I also have the dreaded "F" work in my life from 7 years ago. I was terminated from my last job (after 6 years) 3 months ago. I have put out over 150 resumes and cannot even get a nibble. What is wrong with these employers? I have an excellent work history and letters of recommendation to back it up.
Posted by: Bernice V.
I find Facebook a good social networking tool but it is used by a large population of just "everyday" users that its professional possibilities are null. For the sake of serious professional networking LinkedIn is the site of choice.
Posted by: Christie W.
You all are not alone. I have been out of work since January of this year. I have placed my resume on just about every employment site, applied to temp agencies, and re-vamped my resume but still nothing.  Now I just received my last unemployment check unless there is another extension. I just need a few more months of help so that I can continue to look but it has been really hard. I have years of experience in the medical field and some college. What makes it even harder I am a single parent who is not getting child support on a regular basis. I pray and keep on pushing. Good luck to all.
Posted by: Sylvia
I have 10 years experience as a legal secretary working at the state attorney office. My legal experience is criminal law and i would love to change my field and go into civil. But to find that attorney to give me the chance. I am a fast learner and will catch on very quickly. All I want is that chance and who will give me that chance?
Posted by: viorica
Thank you for inviting me to join your professional professionals.:)viorica
Posted by: Terry
My felony dui is a huge dent in my job search too. Even tho I have great references and job skills, it is devestating being homeless PLUS unemployed. My professional made resume doesn't seem to work either. I welcome any help from you people...
Posted by: Cathy
I have 16 years of accounting, tax and payroll experience and am not able to find a job. The company I worked for eliminated my position and I was laid off. I too have rewritten my resume several times. My work comes highly recommended by former employers and co-workers, but if a hiring agency won't choose my resume nothing I write in my cover letter will do any good.
Posted by: Brian Lyda
I read through each post, and my heart pours out to those under/unemployed. I see many people with many talents, including those who are upbeat and want to instill confidence in others. I pray for everyone that they will find their calling, sooner rather than later.  Do not forget that it is a full-time job looking for a job. Count the number of "no's" that come in, and concentrate on how many "no's" it takes to get a "maybe". I would think 200:1. With the "maybe's" come the "yes's". If you are not getting enough "no's" then you are working part-time. No one else can do it for you. And there has to be a "bounce-back" factor to think about. When the "no's" get you down, you need to "bounce-back" and stay positive. Believe in yourself! There is nothing worse than doubt. You can not eat it or spend it or give it away. But you can overcome doubt by persistency coupled with a positive attitude...
Posted by: Cynthia Gill
Timika.  I was asked to leave my last job (new boss)  All in the office were stunned at how I was "asked to leave"  I did leave (gracefully) w/i one very uncomfortable month.  I applied for unemployment and was denied stating that "I left by my own choice"  I was flabbergasted at this "fib"  I appealed and lost! (humiliating too) How could this wrong happen to a good moral person? Meanwhile all this time (4 1/2 months) and energy was spent.  This whole ordeal has drained me of confidence and any funds I had saved.  Please be gentle and careful with yourself.  I still have not found a job and wonder about my reference as I was there for 5 years. I'm sorry this has happened and hope you will listen to your inner wisdom as I felt I did not and pursue the appeal knowing my lil' voice said not to.  May you know others like me care.   
Posted by: Diane Gabbard
Since were all in the same boat as far as not being able to find a job, how about we work together on this. I live in Warren, MI & am currently looking for a purchasing position. I have as well as you sent my resume out to tons of different companies & still don't have a job. I know you don't know me but I am a hard working individual who would just like to get her feet back in the door. I have a 4-year degree in Business Administration with over 15 years of purchasing experience behind me. If any of you have a friend/old co-worker or personally know of someone that is in the Detroit area that is looking for a buyer, assistant buyer, inventory control analyst, material planner, etc. could you please let me know & I'll do the same for you if you live in the Detroit area. If I hear of anything from family,friends, old co-workers I'll pass it on. So far those that I know are barely hanging onto the jobs that their currently holding. Once the economy actually picks up I hope we all start to hear something positive, I'm keeping my fingers crossed. Let me know what you think.      
Posted by: Jay Sunderland
The economy has put a stop to my Human Resources Consulting Business so I've been job searching. I know from my HR background that it is wise to use Facebook and LinkedIn because I've gotten candidates from both.  Now that I'm a job seeker, I have profiles on both and access each at least daily.
Posted by: Rosemarie Kubecka
I have read all the comments and with regard to those with degrees of any type I have found that the feed back from many I know is...still no job.All I have heard is get a degree, even an AS, butas an administrative assistant, with some collegeunder my belt, it use to be experience vs. degree.Often those fresh out of college had perhaps 2-3years in any clerical position and often I haveworked with H/R.  It was said by many of those in Human Resources as well as many of my bosses (many VP's, managers and CEO) they want extensive experience, variety, ability to switch gears fast, and these college kids don't have that as yet.  So it seems from what I have observed andexperienced with career sites and direct filing of my resume/applications, it is very hard next to impossible to get a job with or without some type of degree.  Now we get to money.  After a year or less one runs out of money.  Networking is great if you know someone at a company or has a friend of a friend at a company one is applying to for that job.  I am on LinkedIN due to a friend and as yet, (2 years) have not seen that this has done me any good.  What can you suggest.Need help.
Posted by: Kathleen Cassidy
I am trying very hard to be positive. I have worked in the Furniture and Accessory Industry for over 22 years and I have never been unemployed. I don't think after all of my experience and dedicated time I have put into my career, I should have to make a resume to look less than what I have done just to get an interview. I am finding that they are only looking for people out of college because the employer thinks they can pay them less money and that they will stay with them forever. I don't think this is true. I know what I want to do and noone has given me the chance to prove myself.
Posted by: Michelle Mertz
Robin Uecker,Can you please email me with some information on what to put on applications, how to answer questions and the like?  I work with people doing job development and career planning with the WIA program and have several clients with backgrounds that could benefit from your experience.  I would benefit by being able to help them as well.  Thank you!  Michelle
Posted by: Deborah Wolff
Personally, I don't think it really matters; I would be open to neither site
Posted by: Orin Allen
I use linkedin exclusively.  Let's face it. Right now, it is tough. But the economy is slowly coming back. You need to use all your resources. Don't get internet depression and just apply for jobs on line.  Ouch!!  Some postings are receiving up to 2000 applicants for positions posted on common sites. 80% of jobs in todays market are secured through networking. I am a volunteer at the LDS Employment Resource Center here.  You can look on line and see where the closest one is to you.  They will help you with resumes, provide career workshops, all at no cost to you, additionally you can register on the free website where you can search for jobs in addtion to your networking.  I am on linkedin and you can connect with me. I would love to help each of you try to find your next career. Anything I can do to help.
Posted by: Wendy Hopkins
My sympathies to all job hunters - I've been unemployed 2 1/2 years and am still looking. I have a degree and more than 18 years experience (part of that experience includes producing the State of the State Address for a Governor.)The person who said to concentrate on networking through friends and former colleagues is right. I've gotten more leads from them than anywhere else. Also, don't expect replies from any employer - they usually only respond if you're a candidate. Employers could actually create a lot of jobs if they'd just hire someone to respond to the applicants! It's a cruel paradox - we're supposed to do everything we can to make ourselves available to their schedules for interviews, etc., but they don't even have the common courtesy to say "Thanks but no.." Facebook and LinkedIn are ok. I truly hope all you job hunters find a position where you're appreciated and paid what you're worth.
Posted by: A Berman
Simple difference between the two sites, Facebook is social networking, LinkedIn is professional networking.  I find LinkedIn very useful when searching for connections into a targeted company because personal networking will give you the best results.  If you speak to any outplacement counselor about a job search, the general consensus is that people find new jobs about 10% through recruiters, 10 - 15% through the internet and 75-80% through personal networking.  And when it comes to personal networking, both LinkedIn and Facebook are OK, but no where near as effective as calls or face to face networking meetings.  It's tough in the job market right now, I hope these comments are helpful.
Posted by: kenya
Tamika: Do what I did-file unemployemt anyway. Make sure your profile is thorough. someone will contact you to validate your application to see who is at fault and determine whether or nor you will get unemployment. It was determined that I was indeed wrongfully terminated.
Posted by: Jim Green
I appreciate the short explanation of the pros & cons of both systems. as well as showing everyone's comments! I know I am not alone in what seems like an endless struggle to find a job! Thanks again Jim
Posted by: John
Pat, I read your response to Isaac. I need the same assistance.  I've been out of work so long that now I have another problem that is being out of work for too long, besides having a felony conviction. Perhaps it's what I say and write on the app?
Posted by: John
Isaac, I have the same problem. I also have a felony conviction. My employer of 31yrs promised my job was safe when I return home from my brief stint at "Camp Fed" (12 months), but when I returned changed her mind!  I've been denied dozens of jobs because of my felony without even asking what I did.  Ok, granted there ARE certain jobs I can't have, but, in general, there's no reason for denying me a job for a mistake.  I got over it, learned my lesson and want to get on with my life.  I've been denied so many times, it seems like an exercise in futility.  If people want to know why felons recommit? Well, GIVE them a JOB, and they won't go back! I've exhausted every means possible.  
Posted by: Frederick Hanson
Good info on the differences and similarities of Facebook and LinkedIN. I have not used either product for job searching but am going to give it a shot.  What have I got to lose but a little more time on my PC.  I am unemployed and am looking at all options/opportunities that are out there.Fred
Posted by: Pat
Boy, i was really feeling bad about not getting any response from any employers, but now that i see so many with such outstanding degrees & experience in the same boat as i. Our government has really let us all down....what happened to all those "jobs" that were promised??? I will run out of "emergency" unemployment next month... I will probably be homeless...and i know that there are thousands more out there just like me!    
Posted by: Robin Uecker
to Issac: if you need help in knowing what to say to interviewers or what to write on applications, I will be glad to assist you. My former profession was Job Developer/Career Counselor with ex-offenders.
Posted by: karla Brown
I was terminated with no real reason, and only 2 months after getting a commentable raise. Now I am in jeopardy of losing my house and everything. I have posted 100 resumes been through the workforce, but no luck.  I am a chef and in the food industry you still can not get a job.  What do we do? how do we live?
Posted by: SHERYL REGAN
i have never used linked in. I am contacted more through facebook.
Posted by: Elizabeth
To Timika - who was terminated and then denied unemployment. My advice, if you haven't already done so, is to appeal. I was terminated once, not given a good reason, denied unemployment on a reason the owner made up, and got unemployment. Good Luck!
Posted by: Bobby Reed
Great analysis and advice...I'm an older guy and really haven't used Facebook but currently using LinkedIn.  I will develop a Facebook page soon...
Posted by: LuAnne Miller
I spent my entire life at Verizon, moving up through the years to make significant money.  I am now looking for a new career and have a Masters at Johns Hopkins in Info. Systems.  I can not believe how HARD it is to even get a reply from these online career sites.    
Posted by: June
I served four years in the Navy and I have a bachelor's degree in criminal justice but no matter how hard I try I can't seem to get a real job. One besides flipping burgers. Heck, it seems they won't even hire me, and I cannot figure out why. One article I read said they check your credit report. I think this is so unfair. All my debt really comes from medical bills, and debt I was forced into by my ex-husband, and now I have to suffer from that. In addition, I live in a college town, not by choice. Here they seem to rather hire the college kids that come and go than someone with a degree and staying. I just don't get and it has me so bummed out. I have three kids to take care of and no one to help. I need a job. Any advice?
Posted by: Fortune
Good points on both sites. But for me personally, Facebook just wasn't working. I originally intended to keep up with former coworkers, and promote my writing. But I found that I was not using it for what I intended. Pretty soon I was getting silly with it, talking about things like my football team, or the latest CD I'd bought. And I found other people were getting silly with me. I had a 60-year-old real-life friend "throwing beads" at me. I had no idea what that meant, nor did I care. I also found myself joining endless groups, which ultimately I did nothing with. None of this is Facebook's fault; it's all mine, for not being able to focus properly. But if you can't, it might be better to stick to professional networking sites, like Linkedin, or Brightfuse. I'm on both, and they're working out very well for me. I'm getting help with my writing, and I can "stay on topic" with my contacts.  That's helping a lot more than posting, "I just bought the latest CD!"
Posted by: Charlene Karr
I have been unemployed for a year, i have been on every web site and looked every where. so how do you find a job these days?
Posted by: Jay De Are
Facebook, LinkedIN etc all have value but never bare your soul for all to read or find.  Put 75% of your energy into networking with old contacts and making new ones, they will give you job leads.  
Posted by: Jennyne
Do you think I should create a new email address for my professional resumes to be answered?  Maybe I am ending up in prospective employers trash box.  What about viruses in my system when I add the networking sites?THANKS
Posted by: William Manning
With all the efforts of checking out our backgrounds before even interviewing us, what's going to happen when they don't find any perfectly innocent applicants out there?  Don't we all have sins in our past?  Mistakes?  Errorneous decisions?  Stupid ways?  Who are they going to hire when no one is perfectly clean?  I may have screwed some people in the past, but I have been screwed a lot more than I have ever screwed anybody else.  And 5 months of being unemployed I am still being screwed every time I send out my resume!
Posted by: Larry Tessari
I think the use of search engines and other investigative procedures by hiring managers and others has increased to the point where it is no longer reasonable or acceptable. Hiring managers are using items not related to job performance to disqualify applicants in ways that are abusive and threatening. Our government refuses to pass laws to prevent this from happening because large corporations hire all the lobbyists who finance election campaigns and private citizens have no voice in government.
Posted by: Melissa Nelson
that was very interesting to read.
Posted by: Wanda Gaddis
So what is the best internet networking site??I am not that technical so getting a little lost out here! Any comments would be appreciated.Thanks  
Posted by: Anita
Dear Isaac,Don't give up! There are employment agencies who have special workers to help felons get a job like Safer Foundation, etc. I saw on TV that this guy from Sater Foundation was a felon for selling drugs and he saw this guy one day and explained to him that he had a felony and the Supervisor would not hire him and he did not give up.  He kept on asking that same guy for a job.  After the third or fourth try that guy decided to give him a chance.  He made sure he was early and worked hard every day.  Then he went to a technical school and got his degree and now he is really getting paid.  If he did it, so can YOU! Don't waste time feeling sorry for yourself.  It is a waste of time and it keeps you from focusing on the prize.  You can do it.  I know you can if you apply your self.  Congradulations in advance!   
Posted by: Patrick Brewer
I'm with you Paula. I'm a 44yr old male who lost his job in April. I'm going on 3 months searching and already going stir crazy and getting frustrated. Tons of resumes and cover letters sent out and very few responses. I refuse to sign up on facebook or spend money on sites for distribution......especially when my budget is so tight now. I lost a job back in 05 to a company that sold out to an overseas competitor. I was still recovering from that setback. I must say though it is comforting knowing I'm not alone in this. I will be glad when I can sleep at night again! Good luck to all.
Posted by: Paula Ouellette
I was wrongfully terminated from a 28 yr career and have been unemployed for a year now. I have applied for over 200 jobs, posted my resume (which I have redone numerous times) on every job site possible and never get a response or call back for an interview. After reading this article, I truly believe that my former boss or subordinates have sabatoged me on the internet. I am at my wits end and really discouraged. Is there any way that I can find out what's out there besides spending big dollars or joining Facebook?
Posted by: Timika Adams
I'm a 25 year old woman; I was wrongfully terminated about a month ago. They told me that they would deny my unemployment and I wouldn't get it and that's just what happened. Now I'm about to lose my apt and everything I have worked for. Finding a job is so hard and I have had no luck. I don't know what I'm going to do.
Posted by: vesselin kavalov
I wish more "info"s are like this - 1/2 page, right to the point, in 1 minute I can assess my situation with respect of the issue at hand, make a decision and take an action and be done with! In this particular case my action was NOT to take an action - I am not signing up for Facebook (despite the "peer pressure" ;) - the Cons far outweigh the so-called Pros (in my case). Thanx for the great job!  
Posted by: Shannon
Isaac:Do you know for sure that it is your felony that is causing you to be overlooked? It may depend on what your felony was for.  You are entitled to ask the employer why they are denying you employment.  Check with your local department of workforce development.  They can help you out with that question.  Good luck to you!
Posted by: Greg Papin
It seems to me that just finding a job is a bigger challenge now. Being capable, experienced and willing to be fully dedicated to a new employer doesn't seem to impress the HR folks. It amazes me that we as job seekers spend hours trying to create the perfect resume and the time devoted to reviewing it is just 10 to 15 seconds per resume. Best wishes to my fellow job seekers, I believe there is a job out there for everyone who wants to work. I think networking with friends and past co-workers is probably the most helpful way to go. Good luck to all.-Greg
Posted by: Laura Wallace
I thought I would have a better chance of employers seeing my career profile I posted on nesstaffing.com. After uploading my application, answering nearly 20 interview questions, designing a cover letter and placing reference information and other networking links on their site, it was all removed by the administrators, I guess of nesstaffing. I feel really bad about losing all of that information, especially when I logged in to upgrade my information for more exposure. I feel let down and suppose I will have to look elsewhere for networking possibilities.  I wish the best for all of my fellow job seekers out there.
Posted by: Steve Drake
I have over 20 years in compliance and operational risk, and 35 years in banking and NO JOB.  So it isn't uncommon today.  Companies aren't looking at people who are not where the job is located, since relocation is no longer typically offered.  And frankly, all the networking I've done on LinkedIn and other sites hasn't produced.  People have their heads down right now protecting their own jobs.  
Posted by: Galina Blanken
I really need help with professional networking.  I have three degrees in the health care field, but NO JOB.  
Posted by: Isaac
Is it true that people make mistakes and deserve another chance? If thats true, why is it that I'm being overlooked by emploters because I have a felony? I have experience, polite, hard working, and a preasure to be around (so I'm told :P) I am at the end of my rope because I'm not getting the opportunity to show my real skills because closed-minded employers are unable to get past the dreaded "F" word on my applications. I could omit it, but my honesty wont allow me. Instead I would rather put it all on the table and be hired on the things that really matter like my experience and ability to lead. I guess I'll just keep on trying until someone out there gives this man a chance. Thank for the sounding board. Until next time.....Isaac
Are you looking for an opportunity to get your ideas and articles published?
Post an Article
Beyond.com is a Registered Trademark of Beyond.com, Inc.
Beyond.com Career Network © 2001 - 2011 Beyond.com, Inc.