Whether you’re currently in a job search, are currently employed and confidentially “looking,” or want to be ready for an unexpected layoff, every job seeker and currently employed professional should be proactively be creating a “Resume 2.0″–a social media portfolio that taps into all the tools available to sell yourself, your skills and your experience to a potential employer.

Here’s why:

Potential employers are already looking at your online presence, whether you’re ready or not.
Recruiters and hiring managers are already scouring LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, message boards and the like to find out more about who you are and why they should consider you for their company. Did you know that top corporations are currently building their talent pools for future hires using Social Media tools? Why not show them your best self now?

Employers want to know that you’re on top of the trends.
Ageism is a reality in the workplace, which is bursting at the seams with four generations of workers in most companies. Baby Boomers and Traditionalists–especially those who are out of work and searching–are increasingly worried about being passed over for that next job. A robust Resume 2.0 demonstrates that you’re relevant, contemporary and technology savvy! Many of your peers are embracing social media. It’s not a fad. Don’t get left behind.

It’s a competitive job market, so don’t let them rule you out before they’ve even met you.
Even if you are already using LinkedIn and other social media tools, are your online profiles working for you—or against you? Specifically, is the description of your experience compelling and to the point, or boring and bland? Do you demonstrate your value and results to a prospective employer? What makes you stand out from the crowd?