Facebook Inc. (NASDAQ: FB) launched a job search feature that will allow employers to list jobs on their pages. The job search feature, which has been in beta testing since November last year, is now available to Facebook users in the US and Canada.
How does it work?
The feature allows page admins to compose job openings. Anyone interested in the opportunity can apply by selecting “Apply Now.” Then they will fill out a job application form, which will have the name and profile picture pre-filled. The business will then reach prospective candidates via Facebook Messenger.
“Businesses and people already use Facebook to fill and find jobs, so we’re rolling out new features that allow job posting and application directly on Facebook,” said Facebook’s VP, Andrew Bosworth.
The feature is free but can be paid
The feature is free to all business pages and users. However, Facebook can display the job opening posts in user’s news feed for a fee. Another way to reach more people is through tagging other users. Also, anyone that views the post can share it on their timeline and groups for the same result- more reach.
LinkedIn should be very worried
Currently, LinkedIn, owned by Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ: MSFT), is the largest professional networking site. Professionals use the site to connect, share ideas and search for job opportunities. But LinkedIn has only 460 million users (who are most likely Facebook users too), while Facebook has close to 2 billion users. So, when the new job search feature rolls out to all Facebook users, very few people will rely on LinkedIn to find employment opportunities.
Also, LinkedIn focuses too much on the resume, thereby discouraging individuals who are looking for casual jobs. The Facebook feature will benefit small-scale businesses, which do not necessarily concentrate on educational qualifications.
LinkedIn is a job search option for people who are looking for employment opportunities. But Facebook will reach almost everyone with the qualification- a job opening post may reach someone who was just taking a break from work who did not even realize they needed to switch jobs.
You may have to retouch your Facebook profile
Some Facebook users have very unprofessional profiles. To be more appealing to employers, users may have to remove some incriminating photos and posts. Many users do not use their official names, yet an employer will require your official names.
Facebook’s stock closed at $133.84, after witnessing an increase of $0.40 or 0.30%.