More executives using networking for job search process, research finds

Networking is becoming a more important part of the job search process, with over 75 per cent of executives using this method to select candidates, according to research from executive search provider Korn Ferry.

The research has shown a decline in the importance of CVs when it comes to the job search process, with just 3 per cent of business executives believing that resumes are still the most important.

Presence

The survey found that 77 per cent of executives use networking in the job hiring process, whilst interviewing and social media presence were also found to be important.

The length of time that executives spend reading a candidate’s CV during the job search process was also revealed, with over 50 per cent spending just five minutes and 13 per cent only two minutes.

However, the survey showed that CVs still matter when it comes to hiring, with experience being found to be the most important piece of information on a candidate’s resume.

The majority of executives look for candidates that have experience that is relevant to the job role, whilst 15 per cent said that the quality of a candidate’s previous employers is the most important piece of information, followed by education at 2 per cent.

Competitive

Peter Keseric, Managing Consultant – Financial Services and Real Estate, Korn Ferry Futurestep, commented: “Candidates who rise above the rest in this very competitive job environment, are those who understand that landing a job takes a balanced approach.

“Resumes are not going away – they’re still an important part of the overall job search process. However, nothing gets a candidate ahead like networking. And networking today is a contact sport.”