Tracking Changes in the Job Market

If you knew when connections in your LinkedIn network changed jobs, how would you use that information?  A service called Job Change Notifier provides you with notifications when one of your LinkedIn contacts changes jobs. You can even identify “persons of interest” and track changes in their career.  This information can give you a leg up when positions become vacant.  You can track decision makers at companies.  It also fosters network bonding; when you get the notifications, you can be one of the first to congratulate your contact on his new job or promotion.

Many times people do not update their LinkedIn profiles immediately following a job change.  However, many do and this is a very effective way to gather, organize, and act upon this information.  Sure, you can visit trade forums to stay abreast of top tier executives and entrepreneurs.  This service transmits data regarding professionals at all levels, not just the top movers-and-shakers.

Who are the consumers of this information?   Recruiters find it useful to find out about new vacancies, new decision-makers, and new start-up ventures.  Job seekers can use for similar reasons.  All of us can use it to keep track of our connections as they progress in their careers.  The value comes from the information being delivered to the user, rather than the user having to research the information.

As social media continues to mature, new services and features will inevitably arise.  It is interesting that many predicted that as we rely more upon technology, the personal touch in business would be lost.  It turns out that this aspect of technology (social media) is actually expediting and enhancing relationships.