Social Media and your Job Search

Social Media can help you find a job and connect with people who can assist you. However, the use of social networks can work both ways. When used wrong they can backfire and jeopardize a job offer or even your current job. It’s important to consider the do’s as well as the don’ts if you utilize social media in your job search.

YOU NEED AN ONLINE PRESENCE
It’s important to have an online presence to showcase your skills and experience. Your online profiles will also help you connect with contacts who can assist with your search or help you advance in your current career.

GOOGLE YOUR NAME
You need to review the information that appears when you Google your name. Employers can find information you may not want to share. They can readily review your online tweets, instant messages, blogs and content and photos you post on social networking sites like MySpace, Facebook and Twitter.

BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU TWEET
Tweets show up in a Google search. You don’t want to post a tweet that says “I hate my job” and have your current or future employer read it. Instantly they have a negative impression and you could get fired by your current employer or never even called by a prospective employer.

DON’T FORGET YOUR FACEBOOK PRIVACY SETTINGS
You must be consistent and careful about your privacy settings. You need to limit who can receive photos. Review your Facebook page today through the eyes of a potential employer. Would you feel comfortable offering you a job, based on the photos included in Facebook?

CONTINUE TO NETWORK
Whether you are currently employed or in a job search, it is important to continually network with individuals in your industry or profession. John Groups on LinkedIn and Facebook, post relevant information and join discussion groups that are appropriate. Be engaged and proactive in your communications to continually build your professional network.

DON’T CONNECT WITH EVERYONE
Qualify is more important than quantity when it comes to using Social Networks for your Job Search. Always ask yourself – how can this person help me? The second question is how can I help them? Before you ask someone to connect, consider what you have in common, because the common denominators are what will help you with your job search.

BE WILLING TO GIVE
Networking is a two way street. The more you are willing to help someone else, the more likely they will be to help you. Daily reach out to your connections. Write a recommendation on LinkedIn, offer to introduce someone to another connection, share an article or news with them. Your connections are more likely to return a favor when you’ve offered to help them.

DON’T SPEND TIME ON LINE AT WORK
Employers are able to monitor 100% of your computer use at work. You should not complete tasks related to your job search while you are being paid by someone else.

RESEARCH NETWORKS
Ask people currently employed in the job you have targeted to identify what social media they utilize? Often there are specific networks that target a specific profession or niche. You want to develop a presence where you can enjoy the greatest return.

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT
If you are confused – find a teenager and they can provide you with a crash course on Social Networks. They can set up your site for you in a matter of minutes. Do not spend all your time focused on Social Media. Utilize the information to connect you with individuals who you then contact.

Social Media is growing at an incredible pace and when you are in a Job Search, you want to utilize all resources available.