Online Profiles: The New Resume?

Online profiles on websites like Facebook and LinkedIn are becoming increasingly popular among all generations in the workplace, and many use such profiles for job searching and networking. But are online profiles replacing the traditional resume? A new survey by staffing firm Office Team suggests that's possible.

The survey of more than 500 human resources managers found that 36 percent of respondents believe it's at least somewhat likely that resumes will eventually be replaced by profiles on social and business networking websites. At the same time, 63 percent of respondents said that replacing resumes with online profiles is "not very likely" or "not at all likely" in the future.

"The resume continues to be an important job-hunting tool, but it's also useful for professionals to create online profiles that highlight their expertise and qualifications," said Robert Hosking, executive director for OfficeTeam. "As hiring managers turn increasingly to the Internet for information about prospective hires, job seekers should keep their online profiles current and behave professionally in the digital space."

What are your thoughts? Could replacing the traditional resume with an online profile be a possibility for the federal government, which is just now looking to replace its lengthy, essay-focused application process with one that favors just a resume and cover letter?