Social media site unites job seekers

KXAN (AUSTIN) - A new social-networking site geared specifically to those who are unemployed is getting nearly 7,000 hits a day.

So far there are about 70 members of the Unemployed American website, launched about two months ago. The social networking site is not unlike a MySpace or Facebook page for those looking for work.

Since Victoria Cloud lost her job 13 months ago, she's felt isolated and alone. "Not having a job is very disempowering, especially in the kind of society we're living in. So much is based on your work performance your personality is affected it's been real devastating for me,” said Cloud.

The website creator, Craig McKee, felt the same way. He launched Unemployed American.com after he was laid off in December. Service like resume posting and online forums are free.

"I wanted to kind of combine a support group and a social networking community because that's what people are used to on Facebook and MySpace," said McKee.

Unemployed American allows members to post resumes and make connections to network with others on the site. The site also offers forums and articles to give advice and suggestions on how to get a job during this tough time.

With an estimated 5 million unemployed Americans, McKee said he wanted to create something to help others dealing with the same challenges he was facing. McKee said he wanted to continue the site, even if he ends up landing a job. Cloud is pleased to hear it.

"I think that's awesome, networking sites are really useful tools and I don't see why it couldn't be applied in this sort of situation," said Cloud.