Which networks are best for recruiting? An exploration of the best platforms for recruiters

Social and professional networks have become an important part of our personal lives, and are beginning to play an increasingly important role in our professional lives (not to mention influencers!). When it comes to recruiting, social networks are no longer just places to socialize, but real tools for hunting down candidates and advertising job vacancies. This article explores the most effective networks for recruitment, highlighting their specific features, target audience and examples of use.

LinkedIn: The Leader in Recruitment Networks

Why use it? LinkedIn is undeniably the number-one network for professionals. With features dedicated to recruitment, such as job postings and the LinkedIn Recruiter back-office, it makes sourcing and hunting much easier. What's more, with almost 1 billion users (July 2023), Linkedin represents the largest professional pool across all sectors.

Specifics: LinkedIn enables a targeted approach thanks to its advanced search filters and its ability to present potential candidates according to specific criteria. What's more, the platform offers options for reinforcing employer branding, a significant asset in attracting top talent.

Target audience: Professionals in all sectors, often with a more qualified profile.

Example of use: Posting a recruitment ad on LinkedIn, using relevant keywords and sharing it with targeted professional groups, can significantly increase the visibility of the offer. What's more, everyone can personally enter their experience and skills on their profile, which immediately facilitates sourcing and skills searches.

Instagram: For a more visual approach and a digital employer brand

Why use it? Instagram is ideal for self-promotion and presenting an attractive corporate culture. It's an unexpected but effective channel for finding and attracting candidates, particularly in creative sectors (graphic artists, UX/UI designers, etc.).

Special features: This network is all about the visual. Stories, publications, and videos show behind-the-scenes stories, events, and employee testimonials.

Target audience: mainly young professionals and creatives.

Example of use: Create a series of stories highlighting a typical day at the company, accompanied by a link to a recruitment ad.

Networks by Sector

Why use them? Networks such as Behance for designers, GitHub for developers, or Dribbble for graphic artists, enable you to target specific professionals.

Special features: These platforms offer a direct overview of candidates' skills and achievements (portfolio, code, artwork, etc.).

Target audience: Professionals and enthusiasts in a specific sector.

Example of use: Post a recruitment advert for a specific project and browse portfolios for a direct approach.

General networks like Facebook

Why use it? Facebook remains relevant for recruitment thanks to its large audience and professional groups.

Special features: Specific job groups and company pages are useful tools for posting ads and interacting with candidates.

Target audience: A wide range of candidates from a variety of sectors.

Example of use: Share a social network ad in relevant job groups and use targeted advertising to reach a wider audience.

The choice of network depends on the type of ideal candidate you're looking for and the cost of recruitment. Each network has its strengths, and a strategy combining several of them can be particularly effective. As a recruiter, it's essential to keep up to date with these tools to optimize your recruitment processes and attract the best talent.