Over the past few decades, technology has dramatically changedthe way finance professionals do their jobs. It should come as nosurprise, therefore, that technology has also changed the way theyfind those jobs.

Accountemps, which provides temporary staffing for accounting,finance, and bookkeeping positions, recently surveyed 2,400 seniormanagers across the United States about the characteristics thatmake a particular professional stand out from a crowded field ofcandidates for an open finance position. The survey results suggestthat appropriately leveraging modern technologies is a must.

Nearly half of survey respondents (49 percent) said they areimpressed when candidates use social media to network withemployees who already work at their organization. A similarproportion (47 percent) said candidates can stand out by givinghiring managers access to an online portfolio or personal website.And 4 in 10 said that highlighting accomplishments in aninfographic can tip the scales in a candidate's favor.

"A strategic job search requires much more than putting togethera polished resume," says Michael Steinitz, executive director ofAccountemps. "In addition to learning about candidates' skills andexperience, employers want to see a strong online presence andpassion for their work."

Despite this emphasis on the modern, finance professionalscannot disregard the basics. A full 58 percent of surveyrespondents said that a cover letter is very helpful to acandidate's cause.

Moreover, candidates that leverage technology in their jobsearch must do so wisely. An approach that comes across asinappropriate will hinder their prospects. When asked which actionswould most hurt an applicant's chances, a quarter of surveyrespondents cited using colorful fonts or backgrounds on jobapplications, while 35 percent cited using images such as emojis orcaricatures.

Even as they demonstrate their online savvy, candidates need to"steer clear of anything that could be considered distracting orunprofessional," Steinitz advises.