More Procurement pros are using the Internet to hang out “Help Wanted” signs and track down best business practices at the same time.

Actually, it’s Internet networking sites — LinkedIn, Facebook and the like — that are opening new doors for Procurement people looking to beef up talent or even hunt down possible hires who don’t happen to be looking for work at the time.

It figures this would strike a chord with Procurement and Purchasing folks. They’re used to networking, turning over stones and exercising creativity when it comes to upgrading any part of the operation.

In addition to uncovering talent, Internet networking sites can be a great source of references for job candidates, above and beyond the ones they supply.

It’s a two-way street: Out-of-work Procurement and Purchasing pros seeking new employment report that sites such as LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com) are a great way to market yourself and save time, approaching only companies you’d be interested in working with.

There’s still another benefit. Internet networking sites can be information hubs.

Members can pose questions to specific groups about how others might handle a similar situation. This sort of input can be invaluable.

In this sense, it’s a tool and resource that facilitates information exchange and the sharing of ideas.

That’s why, for many Procurement and Purchasing pros, it’s a classic “win-win” opportunity.

Tags: best practices, Internet, LinkedIn, network, procurement, purchasing