Service: Jobster

What it does: Connects job seekers and employers with a Web-based service that has a social networking twist. Jobster has a distinct focus on creating a "talent network" for members, while letting employers use Jobster as a marketing platform to attract potential employees. Through social networking integration, including a presence on Facebook, Jobster embodies the Web 2.0 approach to job search.

Failings: Even though Jobster has nuzzled its way into existing social networks, Jobster's social approach applies a long-term plan to what is often a short-term goal -- getting a job. In building up its community of users and adding networking tools to the job search, Jobster is requiring members to invest a lot of additional effort in the job search. It can also be difficult to sustain online relationships amongst job seekers and employers. In the past year or so, the company has had trouble promoting its services to a wider audience. Lastly, Jobster has experienced some destabilizing executive turmoil -- the startup suffered some embarrassing bad press due to a less-than-ideal office environment, as well as company-wide layoffs and the replacement of Jobster's CEO in 2007.

Turnaround potential: There are great opportunities for Jobster to better leverage social networks and present data to both job seekers and employers. Jobster already has a large employer customer base and existing integration with social networks through platform applications and the Facebook partnership. If the service can better integrate services across social networks, it will be easier for members to build their networks of contacts and more quickly find jobs.

'Net views:

Mashable: "I like the idea a lot: rather than chasing employers, let them send all the info to you. The only question is whether it is truly useful, or becomes something akin to a glorified mailing list."

Woodrow: "Everything Jobster says makes sense - accept for one thing. It doesn't really work. Jobster is nothing more than a glorified job distributor that leans heavily on email as it main distribution outlet."

Management: Jason Goldberg, Co-Founder, Phil Bogle, CTO and Co-Founder,Jeff Seely, CEO, David Eckert, CFO, Kevin Hatfield, Senior Vice President of Business and Corporate Development, Jessica Scheibach, Vice President of Products, and Russell Williams, Vice President of Engineering. Backed by Ignition Partners, Trinity Ventures, Mayfield Fund and Reed Elsevier Ventures for a total of $45 million.

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