Classified ads, job boards, career fairs…now social media. Here are some tips on how to use social media to help you land a great job:
Tip #1: Get Linked Up on LinkedIn
As one of today’s leading recruitment firms, Peoplelink knows LinkedIn is the #1 social media source that recruiters use. In fact, it accounts for 73% of new hires through social media. So you need to be on it if you’re looking for a job.
And don’t just simply create a profile and call it a day. It’s important to be a participant, to have your voice heard, and to be seen as an expert in your field. For instance, you can:
- Join relevant industry groups and participate in discussions about topics you’re “in the know” about.
- Seek out companies you want to work for and check out their LinkedIn pages, commenting on their postings and videos, as well.
- If you have a blog, then link up your blog roll to your LinkedIn profile.
- Get as many recommendations as possible from colleagues and past employers.
- Add video to your profile discussing how you solved a challenging project at work, or your opinion on an industry topic.
Tip #2: Tweet It Up.
Twitter enables you to connect with lots of different people in your field of interest, which offers plenty of opportunity for networking.
You can also search for jobs using hashtags or you can target a few key companies you’d like to work for and start interacting with them on Twitter. For instance, retweet their tweets, or send a direct message to someone at the company you’re following letting them know that you liked something they posted. The more a company is able to put a face to your name, the better chance you have of getting your foot in the door with them.
In addition, you can use a site like Twellow.com to find Twitter users with a particular area of expertise, or in a certain field or location.
Tip #3: Find It on Facebook.
While Facebook is primarily a personal social media site, rather than a professional one, there are ways you can leverage it to help you find a job.
For instance, if you’re looking for a job on the down low, private message your Facebook friends and ask them to keep their ears open for any opportunities. Make sure you let them know what you do and exactly what kind of position you’re looking for.
If you’re unemployed, then you may simply want to post a status update to all your friends about your job search. Also, to stay top of mind with your friends, post regular updates about your search (don’t overdo it, though). An occasional comment like: “Had a great job interview this morning! Wish me luck.” will do.
Need Help Finding Your Next Great Job?
Let Peoplelink know. As one of today’s leading recruitment firms, we can connect you with all kinds of opportunities – many of which aren’t advertised – at some of the top employers in the country. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you.
