9 tips on how to look for a job on social networks
Social media is a good servant in search of work, but a bad master. Just as they can help you find your dream job, they can ruin your career. How to prevent this?
Companies on individual social networks present their work, services or corporate culture, but in return they want to look into the privacy of their customers – and of course employees. It is pages such as Facebook, Google+, Twitter or LinkedIn that give employers the opportunity to tap you in reality, that is, apart from starched phrases from CVs and cover letters. And since this form of communication is mostly public, they have no problem finding everything good, but also the bad things that the Internet remembers about you.
1. Create a real personal profile
You are on any network, stand up for yourself and don’t try to be anonymous, because if the staff finally finds you, you will act as a secretary. A convincing and especially personal profile under your own name creates a much better impression than fake nicknames and fictitious detailed info. All you need to do is carefully choose what posts you share with the world.
2. Be polite at all times
You may only have your best friends in your contacts and your profile is blocked from the public. But the coincidence is a jerk and you never know which of your posts may get further than your profile board. Vulgarities and perversions should be absolutely taboo for you during the job search period, but also pay attention to such details as grammatical errors or inappropriate profile photo.
3. Publish only relevant content
Act on the media you’re on. LinkedIn is a highly professional network where you should update your work history and address professional topics, avoiding over-private contributions. These belong more to Facebook or Google+, although here in moderation. Twitter is somewhere on the range, tweet humanly and naturally, but on quality, professional topics.
4. Contribute carefully and sparingly
We could change the old saying to “Measure twice and share once.” So if you’re in the middle of a serious search for a new job, always think about whether the post will do you more harm than good. Avoid controversial opinions, do not speak or speak negatively towards the employer (whether past, present, or future).
5. Search the right places
As the saying goes, everything is on the web. And in the age of social media, you don’t even have to search hard in the forgotten corners of the Internet, just follow the profile of your coveted employer. When companies are looking for a new addition to the team, they are the first to use the so-called social hiring – hiring through their social networks. It’s free, and if you respond, they can tap you right away.
6. Build a network of the right contacts
Connect with professionals from your profession. Find groups dedicated to your field on each network and join the most active and respected ones. Try to get involved in their activities, let people know about you in circles. You are building invaluable social capital and acquaintances in the industry are ideal for learning about new job opportunities.
7. Be active in professional communities
When you respond to groups that are relevant to your job hunt, not only do you know immediately about suitable vacancies, but people in the industry will also remember you. And if your profile shows that you are a quality and interesting force for the hiring company, they will not hesitate to address you proactively. Post, tweet, comment, and show your report and interest.
8. Present yourself as a quality resource
Help your contacts by answering questions, connecting interesting people, and sharing resonant content. Most people only post posts that they see as value for themselves. However, they are often boring, seem cheap and unoriginal, and have certainly never received an offer. However, posting things that benefit others increases your credibility.
9. Don’t worry about a job
Keep a name in front of the virtual public that will help your career and you don’t have to be ashamed of it. While you’re behind the screen, avoid begging for work. Instead, keep in touch with the right people and show them through your contributions that you are intelligent and qualified candidates who are worth inviting to an interview.