Networking websites and other Internet communication platforms, such as Facebook, LinkdIn or Second Life will be the new sources used by HR specialists to locate or recruit personnel, insiders say.

Recruiters and HR staff will tap into the new networking sites for recruiting purposes as well as for keeping a good peer relation.

The technology, called web 2.0 has been at hand for internauts ever since 2003 and it marks the most recent stage in the development of internet, through which the user can access the social networking sites, can build a profile by adding personal (Facebook) or professional (LinkedIn) information and can interact with other users. Accessing and profile making is free of charge.

Ioana, an employee in Romanian communication industry found a job after activating her account on LinkedIn, the business-oriented social networking site. “In 2007, I edited my personal profile by adding the information on my CV and recommendations received from previous jobs. Afterwards, when I started to look for a job, I have sent a message to all my connections”, she said. However, she didn’t receive a prompt reply. After exchanging messages on LinkedIn, an employer called her for an interview. “I received the invitation online and then we had a meeting in person”, she remembers.

By recruiting on social networking sites, specialists say, companies chop their recruitment costs by minimizing operating expenses and time allocated to interviewing the applicant. Through web 2.0 applications, the company can provide emotional support in the event of layoffs or the introduction of a new member on the team. “If he is a Facebook user, a newcomer can already know 20 employees and it will be much easier for him to fit in”, Jon Ingham, executive consultant for Human Capital Management Consultant said at HR Web 2.0 conference.

“Some organizations us