Today I received a couple of my first rejections to resumes I submitted with interest in social media positions. They both were sent by email, by local companies which chose to not even give me an interview. Kind of discouraging, but I believe that everything works out exactly the way it is supposed to – and apparently I was not meant for either position at Eddie Bauer or Banyan Branch (despite being recommended for each). I suppose I should be thankful that each of them let me know.
The good news is that I do have a number of great people looking out for me and had two new positions sent my way today. I am very confident that I will soon be helping another company or organization.
In the meantime, I am helping Overlake Service League with their social media needs (be a fan of the OSL Thrift Shop in Bellevue Square) and working on putting on the Social Media 201 Conference with Fresh Consulting at Microsoft on April 15th, as well as The Mane Event on Main (when my hair will finally be harvested for the benefit of children with medical challenges).
If you want to learn how to use social media to take your business to the next level of engagement and profitability, you’ll want to attend Social Media 201 – make sure to use the discount code “EASTSIDE” at checkout. I hope to see you there!
Joe – Sorry for the late comment on this earlier post! Keep in mind that the term social network in itself is an oxymoron. The fact that so many of these companies have decided to latch on to the latest trend doesn’t necessarily mean they truly “get” it. Sometimes the old-fashioned way is still the best: a phone call, a face-to-face interview, a simple handwritten note. I’m sorry to see most of that fade away even as we continue to hear more noise about the importance of “social” networking. Plain old common sense and courtesy still mean something, especially in this rush around age. Taking that minute to personally speak with someone and thank them for taking their time to apply for a job should be a no-brainer. Besides, how would anyone pick up subtle nuances in a resume or an e-mail?
I hope you end up finding a position that suits you well and actually treats you as the real human being that you are rather than as a social media avatar!
Thank you for your comment Robert!
I believe you are right and that not every biz jumping into social media really “get it”.
Still the same, I feel like it IS important for them to jump in. Things are changing at a speed like never before and I like to tell people, “you may be behind the curve in social media, but don’t get left behind.”
I also agree with you that a lot can be missed through an email or resume, but as someone who has done a lot of hiring in the past, I also realize that it’s just not possible to talk to everyone. Handwritten notes are nice, but not very common and certainly not expected.
Thanks again for your comment and well wishes!
Joe is very unprofessional and I would advise against hiring him.
Thanks for your opinion Jeff. I’d like to address any particular concerns you may have if you’d like to share – but then again, you use an anonymous email address so that’s doubtful. Wonder if people give any credence to your comment if you won’t even stand behind it.