job search

The idea around “mobile apply” for recruiters is an ongoing hot topic and I think the next big step recruiters would like to see their company become fully invested. It’s like the Holy Grail of the new application process, allow job candidates the ability to apply from anywhere!

That is the ideal scenario. There are companies that are closer than others, and Jibe seems to be leading the way at the moment.

However, recently I attended the NACE Social Mash Up conference in Philadelphia and had an interesting exchange with Dan Black from Ernst & Young who shared an interesting perspective on apply now. Dan is thinking apply now as an ongoing process, or what I translated into a “Hansel and Gretel” approach. A bread crumb trail.

Think of it this way:

• See a position on your mobile device and be able to leave basic contact information on the position.
• Get sent an email, or text message, reminder about that interest and a reminder to check back and complete the application process
• If the applicant does not finish the process, the company has basic information to follow-up via email or text with company information to encourage continuance in the application process. This becomes more of a branding and messaging campaign. The applicant also has the ability to opt-out if so desired.

The one time mobile apply is ideal, put your resume in for candidacy immediately from anywhere. But, if this is not an immediate option, allowing candidates to have a “bread crumb” apply process might also help and possibly keep interested and qualified candidates thinking about you and interested.

I thought Dan brought up a very interesting and unique approach and one that I believe companies will look to expand upon as a mobile-cost savings approach.

I also believe that LinkedIn and Facebook are both positioned well for a mobile apply solution. If people simply upload a document to Facebook they can then do a Facebook Connect apply (but this leads into an entirely separate conversation whether you want employer’s access to your Facebook page). LinkedIn already has a PDF of your profile so applying is already made simple.

What do you think about these methods as an alternative to a one stop mobile apply?

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Tagged as: apps, career, career search, careers, dan black, Facebook, hansel and gretel, holy grail, how to apply, jibe, job, job application, job search, jobs, LinkedIn, mobile, mobile apply, mobile apps, nace, nace social mash up, resume, social mash up, talent community, talent network, upload resume

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