Survey Finds Online Presence Important Factor in Hiring Process

MINNEAPOLIS, Oct. 18, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- In today's highly digital world, it's becoming increasingly important to have a strong online brand — no matter your occupation or field of interest. In fact, Rasmussen College, a regionally accredited private college, found in a recent Employer and Student Survey* that around 33 percent of employers research a job candidate's online presence during the hiring process. The College will host 15 free Community Career Fairs nationwide Oct. 20 – Nov. 2 to help community members, students and graduates build their online brands and advance their job seeking skills. Attendees will gain access to career experts and local employers with open positions. Events will include networking with potential employers, LinkedIn and resume consultations, mock interviews and professional dress advice.

Employers Look at a Job Candidate's Online Brand
The survey found that most employers are looking at a candidate's online brand upon review of a job application (27 percent) or after an interview (27 percent). Another seven percent of employers surveyed indicated they don't have a standard practice but they do look.

The primary social media networks potential employers are reviewing when looking at a candidate's online presence are LinkedIn (72 percent) and Facebook (54 percent). While most job-seekers responded that they believe employers are reviewing their posts (80 percent) and images (80 percent), employers revealed that they are looking more at posts (59 percent) and groups (51 percent).

"It's important for job seekers to remember their online content and affiliations reflect their offline brand," said Lamont Allen, assistant vice president of student affairs and career services at Rasmussen College. "We encourage job seekers to review their social content before submitting their next application to ensure their professional and personal achievements, memberships and special skills are showcased and represented appropriately. Your online brand may be the first impression or the final handshake for your dream job. So make sure it tells the story you want to share."

Many Rasmussen College Community Career Fair events will provide LinkedIn training as well as free professional headshots. For a complete list of Community Career Fair events and to view a list of employers at a fair in your area, please visit http://www.rasmussen.edu/student-life/events/careerfair/.

To learn more about the Rasmussen College Employer and Student Survey, please visit http://www.rasmussen.edu/student-life/blogs/college-life/is-your-online-brand-helping-or-hurting-your-career/.

*Rasmussen College Employer and Student Survey, Aug. 15 – Sept. 23, 2016. Respondents include approximately 240 employers and 80 job seekers.

ABOUT RASMUSSEN COLLEGE:
Rasmussen College is a regionally accredited private college and Public Benefit Corporation that is dedicated to changing lives through high-demand educational programs and public service. Rasmussen College offers certificate and diploma programs through associate's and bachelor's degrees online and across its 22 Midwest and Florida campuses in a supportive, student-centered and career-focused environment. Since 1900, Rasmussen College has been dedicated to being a primary contributor to the growth and development of the communities it serves. As a Public Benefit Corporation, Rasmussen College is committed to helping change lives through education and making a positive impact on society through public service and a variety of community-based initiatives. For more information about Rasmussen College, please visit www.rasmussen.edu.

Contact: Molly Andersen
Phone: 952-844-5647
Mobile: 903-920-4366
Email: [email protected]

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SOURCE Rasmussen College

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