The death of the CV: Young people are increasingly looking for jobs on social media

The traditional CV is on the way out as young people choose to promote their skills to employers on social networks, according to research.

Youngsters are said to be worried their classic resumes look ‘boring’ and are increasingly contacting potential employers directly on social media.

A Twitter survey of 264 young people aged 18 to 24 found 70 per cent think CVs do not allow them to ‘showcase’ who they are to an employer. Forty-four per cent would prefer to apply for jobs via Twitter rather than writing a CV.

One respondent said: ‘I like the idea of using Twitter because it becomes more “connected” rather than a generalised email.’ Another said: ‘My Twitter shows my personality, compared to my CV, which is very professional and can be boring.’ Jessica Mansell, of Twitter, advises online job applicants to use images and emojis to ‘catch the attention’ of their dream employer.

However, Stephen Isherwood, of the Institute of Student Employers, argued: ‘Employers are more and more active on social media, but CVs, covering statements and application forms remain the best way to get employers’ attention.’