I hope everyone had a relaxing and safe 4th of July weekend. The fireworks are just beginning in the online recruiting industry! Despite headlines to the contrary, hiring during the summer is only going to get more competitive, this is no time to relax on your recruitment strategy.

It is more obvious than ever that recruiting teams have to diversify their recruitment marketing efforts. Every person I speak with has an egg timer (no pun intended) on their job board contract. Will they swear off job boards completely? The smart money is moving to digital recruiting through targeted advertising and social media recruiting. Check out this week's social recruiting headlines...

The huge success of LinkedIn's IPO has put a large target on its back.  How will they answer the challenge?

#1 Facebook Wars: BeKnown & BranchOut take on LinkedIn - ERE.net - http://bit.ly/iv28GJ

I think everyone should take a look a BeKnown and BranchOut and make an informed decision on whether you think they will or can be a useful networking site for your career.

#2 BeWare of BeKnown from Monster.com - on Facebook | Talent HQ -  http://bit.ly/l7ol8y

Well, that is one way to take on the challenge! The 4th of July fireworks started early this year.

#3 LinkedIn Cuts Off API Access To BranchOut, Monster's BeKnown And Others For TOS Violations -  http://tcrn.ch/meiV6s

A huge thanks to Laurie for compiling such a comprehensive list.

#4 Ultimate HR/Career Blog List for 2011: V3.0 - The Cynical Girl -  http://bit.ly/kbdhjJ

The Grandma's Chicken Soup blog stews up the latest and greatest recruiting news, for please follow me @HireClixScott