Disclosure: This post was inspired and sponsored by Domain.ME, the provider of the personal URLs that end in .ME. As a company, they aim to promote thought leadership to the tech world. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

How to Help College Graduates Find Jobs

One of the biggest challenges college graduates face today is finding a job that relates to their chosen field. After spending four or more years in college graduates collect their degrees and set off in the job market in hopes of landing the perfect job. Unfortunately it’s not as easy as it sounds. In a recent eBook published by Domain.me titled ‘US Survey: HR Professionals’ Recruiting Habits & Trends’ which provides evidence based research on the importance of a personal website for job seekers. Statistics prove that the likelihood of that college graduates receive job offers is much greater if your college grad has a website. A few other stark realities facing your job seeking college graduates are 1) HR professionals receive an average of 100 applications for every job opening.2 HR professionals admit that they Google your kids and check out their online presence. Having a personal website and creating a personal brand is essential in order to maximize visibility in today’s competitive job market. 67% of the HR professionals who participated in the study claim that a personal website provides more insight than a resume alone. You can download the ebook here.

Tips on How to Help College Graduates Find Jobs

Personal branding is important. An online presence allows the potential employer to have access to a broader range of information providing greater insight on the job seeker. Nearly 1/3 of the HR professionals of HR professionals agreed that a personal website can provide a competitive advantage over those who merely send in a resume. Maintaining a personal website takes time, initiative and creativity; three attributes that appeal to potential employers. A personal website allows job seekers to take control of their online image, shaping it and allowing them to stand out.

Having a recent college graduate of my own it quickly became clear that she needs to stand out above others who are seeking the same jobs. Creating and maintain a personal website will allow her to showcase or highlight her personal strengths and abilities creatively. When asked which social media network they rely on most 43% indicated that they turn to LinkedIn more than the other “leading” social media networks. By linking their personal website to LinkedIn the job seeker is opening the opportunity for potential employers get a broader look into the candidate’s abilities as well as personality traits giving them a well-rounded opportunity to hire the best candidate for the job. The college graduate (job seekers) must stand out or rise above the rest in order to obtain the most desired jobs.

More than half of recruiters conduct an active online search in addition to considering online resume submissions. 42% of recruiters say that less than 1 in 100 job seekers are utilizing personal websites as a leverage to enhance their candidacy. Predrag Lesic, CEO of domain.me said “This new research confirms that we are moving beyond the age of ‘be careful what you post’ and into an era of digital presence and savvy to differentiate yourself in the job market. While recruiters continue to scan social posts for red flags, they view digital assets as tools to better understand candidates and to help them make more informed hiring decisions. The candidate who offers that content has an advantage in telling their personal story.”

Domain.me provides a place for job seekers to create their own personal space that will enhance their opportunities to secure a job in the field they desire to work. 62% Online content helps them identify red flags with candidates. The HR professionals indicate that self-authored articles, involvement with community or civic activities, interaction with influencers of their chosen industry and commentary related to industry topics are ideal elements of a successful personal website. Things such as Risqué photographs, negative comments about work, negative comments about current/former employer, inappropriate language/cursing and pictures of partying (including alcohol consumption and/or controversial political or social opinions are elements that can cause a candidate to lose their opportunity to obtain the desired job.

It is important to remain focused on creating and maintaining a personal website; the likelihood of being more noticeable and desirable to potential employers. Personal website makes a positive professional impression. The more information highlighted regarding abilities, achievements and even hobbies the more likely your college graduate will stand out and rise above others and land the desired job. As parents we made sure our children got to soccer practice, little league games, scouts and playdates; it is time we continue that trend and provide encouragement and support as they transition to the work force. Check out Domain.me and watch your college grad find the right job. #HireME.