If the materials that I am seeing – both across my desk and in my volunteer work- I am not helping or reaching the people who need it.  

Some job seekers are not reading blogs that could be extremely valuable in writing and updating application materials.    

Some job seekers are not on Twitter following the people who could extremely valuable in the job search. 

Some job seekers are not LinkedIn and are not reaping the benefits of networking.  

How do I know this?  I am seeing it in the flesh.  Well, not really, the electronic flesh.  Some of the resumes and cover letters that I see are not good -wretchedly not good at all; and if a candidate stumbled upon and read any of the people or places in my HR networks, chances are good that their materials would not look like they do.   

Part of my current strategy and mission is to spread the word, making Social Media and Networking for beginners as underwhelming as possible.  As I continue to work with job seekers, friends and colleagues who are not utilizing the tools, they get my SoMe SoNet primer, the must-haves in 30 minutes.

GMail account for the job search

Info on Google Reader, Voice, Docs and Alerts 

How to set up RSS 

Great websites to follow

A LI and Twitter account (FB is optional) 

The A list of who to follow on Twitter 

Quick links to LI rules 

Overview of LI groups 

How to tie it all together

I promise that initial investment is 30 minutes.  Check email.  Scan the Google reader for updates from Twitter, LI and  blogs.  Combine with in-person networking.  Additional ideas are so welcome!