As humans, we like to connect with each other and we have just discovered a wonderful venue emerging for us to use. Social media can provide you information and connections that are vital to your job search. You can research companies and industries, but you can also contact alumni who work at a company to learn even more. Here are five simple tips on how to use social media to expand and strengthen your current job search.
1. Let people know you’re looking. Twitter, Facebook, and Linkedin are excellent platforms to let your friends and followers know what you are looking for work. Let them know what kind of job you are looking for and even if they do not know of anywhere hiring right at the moment, they’ll have you at the forefront of their mind when they hear of a job opening.
2. Find information about hiring managers. Prior to submitting your resume, it is recommended you look up the hiring manager/company you are applying for on places such as Twitter and Linkedin. Knowing more about the person who’s hiring can help you tailor your cover letter to their needs and desires.
3. Create the connections you need in order to get the job you are looking for. Networking is all about who you know. Figure out who you need to know to land a certain job—likely the hiring manager—and make that connection.Twitter in particular offers opportunity to connect with professionals who might not otherwise give you the time of day
4. Participate in industry chats on Twitter. Look for chats that revolve around your industry and/or the industry you want to work in. Joining online conversations helps you keep up-to-date on the industry, meet helpful contacts, and showcase your expertise in your field.
5. Make sure your Facebook Profile is Private. Much of your Facebook profile is public by default, and you probably don’t want a potential employer browsing your personal updates. Under Account, then Privacy Settings, choose “Friends Only.” That way, an employer who Googles you won’t be able to see the details of your profile, your photos, or your personal status updates.