The Internet allows us to network across the world and transfer information about ourselves in seconds. Should we so choose, we can show every other user our name, face, attributes, personal opinions and skills. Our character is often immediately apparent through the words that we write online. Recently, the Internet has also become an invaluable forum for job seekers and employers. It expedites the processes of reviewing credentials, scheduling interviews and even making a good impression.
Is this impression good enough to completely replace the hardcopy résumé? Many members of the online community have begun using the blog as a sort of Internet résumé. They argue that blogging can have a prominent role in the hiring process. Considering that we have typically based hiring on face-to-face interaction, is it really at the point of total transition? Can résumés ever be replaced?
One problem with the idea of a “blog-centric” job search is the bad reputation of blogs. Most serious professionals, consequently those who may be interviewing you, do not see them as having value or credibility. As each subsequent generation becomes more involved with technological trends, this may become the norm. Teenagers who blog today might, in the future, scan blog sites for potential employees. Until this happens, however, employers simply prefer the traditional route.
Another shortcoming of blogs is that they require employers to read through too much content. The purpose of a résumé is to be an at-a-glance reference. It presents the same amount of information that a blog can, using far less space and content. Browsing to find related subject matter is too time-consuming when conducting a large applicant search.
This is not to say that blogs aren’t useful in the hiring process. Employers sometimes do find blogs, perhaps related to their industry, and browse for applicants. It is important to note that this method is only truly convenient as a small part of the process. While it can be used to find job seekers, it is not a reliable source for credentials. In other words, it can get you an interview, but it will not replace your résumé.
In the future, we may see a time when blogs are used for an array of professional purposes. It is unlikely, though, that they will ever completely replace the résumé. In the meantime, keep updating your résumé and blog. Having both at your disposal will keep you prepared, no matter what employers want.
Filed under: Employment, Jobs, Resume | Tagged: Employment, Resume
