New Social Networking Site to help Job Searching Manx Graduates

With the help of PDMS the DTI is 'going social' with the launch of a free, online social network to help connect local employers with Manx graduates.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is 'going social' with the launch of a free, online social network to help connect local employers with Manx graduates and other skilled Manx individuals who are living abroad and who may be looking for suitable employment on the Island. The initiative is part of the Government's strategy to encourage Manx graduates and other skilled workers to return to the Isle of Man once they have completed their graduate studies and/or developed other valuable vocational skills.

Developed in conjunction with PDMS and with the support of the Department of Education, www.manxgraduates.im contains a database for use by both local organisations seeking to recruit and by individuals looking for work on the Island.

Minister for Trade and Industry Hon David Cretney MHK commented:

"We hope that this innovative new website will help to promote the range of career opportunities that exist in our diverse economy to skilled individuals, many of whom are Manx-born and may be seeking to build a suitable career on the Island. Attracting such talented individuals is vital if we are to continue to build our skills base. As a parent with a daughter in further education myself, I know how important it is that individuals studying or working in the UK and elsewhere can access up-to-date information about career opportunities here in the Isle of Man, so we can attract them back to make a valuable contribution to our community. I would encourage both local employers and individuals interested in working in the Isle of Man to visit the site and register their details.”

‘Manx Graduates’ borrows some of the interactive features found on social networking sites such as Facebook. Those seeking work can register online to provide details on their skills, experience and the type of job they are seeking plus there is a facility to produce a professional-looking CV. Isle of Man employers and recruitment firms will be able to provide a company profile, details of general career opportunities as well as specific job vacancies. The site is free to use for both job-seekers and employers.

Local software company, PDMS, have developed the software behind the ‘Manx Graduates’ site.

Managing Director of PDMS, Chris Gledhill commented:

"The social aspects of Web 2.0 technology are transforming how people communicate and connect and this new channel has huge potential in helping Isle of Man employers address their recruitment challenges. Online social networks are still cutting edge in the context of public services, but they are a cost effective way to build community and strengthen relationships with stakeholders. We could very well be the first country to use social networks in this way."

Manx Graduates was built with PDMS's Foundations, a development framework used to build web applications to meet the specific needs of any organisation, better, faster and cheaper than most bespoke or off-the-self solutions.