Is your company trying to think outside the box for innovative recruiting strategies — perhaps even outside of that window-less convention center or out-of-state college campus?
If so, TMP Worldwide’s recently announced first official virtual job fair might interest you. The 3D interactive event, Network in World, is running May 15 to May 17 and includes eBay, HP, Microsoft, Sodexho, T-Mobile, and Verizon.
However, no worries if want to register your company but think it’s too late, as TMP Worldwide promises more of these interactive events in the future.
This inaugural event will work much like a traditional job fair, the company says, with job seekers and recruiters engaging in traditional job-fair activities. Each participant communicates via a personalized avatar (i.e., a photo profile representing an online user) on TMP Island in Second Life. And for new users who need directions, or a briefing on their “in World” interviews, there are guides and helpers to ensure a great experience.
TMP Worldwide says the job seekers will be sent via “telehubs” to a company’s specific location on TMP Island to meet recruiters for interviews within virtual client offices and experience the company’s culture.
Positions available span financial services, engineering, information technology, sales, and management.
The company explains that this event is geared for forward-thinking companies and individuals who want to take advantage of this new medium to accomplish business objectives.
(Or, if you’re simply looking to travel the world without leaving your seat, you can always pick up The Unofficial Tourists’ Guide to Second Life and take a vacation first to learn more about Second Life.)
“Network in World is a program that is sure to evolve, and it is a great way for job seekers and recruiters to interact in a unique, fun, and branded online environment. It’s well-suited for companies who are known for innovation,” according to Louis Vong, vice president of interactive strategy at TMP Worldwide.
However, a recent ERE weekly poll illustrated that the majority of participants were unsure about Second Life. In fact, 55% (or 104 votes) selected the “What’s Second Life?” category. Only 4% (or seven votes) selected the “Yes, we’re already there!” category.
In response to that poll, ERE member John Rankin asked, “I am simply curious as to the 4% who are already using Second Life for recruiting, how much success are you really having?”
After this week’s virtual recruiting event, recruiters at eBay, HP, Microsoft, Sodexho, T-Mobile, and Verizon might just be able to give Rankin, and others, a better glimpse into their successes.