Most job hunters are well aware of the importance of resumes and cover letters to get that all important job interview. However, most people are completely unaware of how social media can help them to find a job. Social media can be used for much more than sharing silly videos or posting funny pictures of your dog. As social media grows, more companies are using it to find employees. In addition, 75% of all hiring decisions are finalized only after an applicant’s social media account has been checked out. Here’s how to use social media to find your next job. So, we asked UK recruiter Spotlight Recruitment what they think it takes to land the dream job on social media.
1. Get the word out.
Make a FaceBook post or a Tweet on Twitter to let the people in your social network know that you are looking for a job. Define the type of position you want. One of your friends may know of a hiring manager who is looking for someone just like you. You should never do this if you are working at a job. If your employer sees your post, you might find out that you are leaving your current job much earlier than you had hoped. Keep your job search on the down low if you are still employed while you are looking.
2. Start engaging with prospective employers on social media.
Chances are that the company you want to work for has a social media account. Start out by following them to hear about upcoming changes within the organization that might mean new job opportunities. Use it to communicate the passion that you feel for your chosen field. It will give you a chance to see what the company is thinking and which direction they are moving in. Hiring managers scan through profiles on the LinkedIn platform. The platform was designed to facilitate networking, so feel free to politely introduce yourself to the relevant individual at the company you wish to work for and explain your intentions to them. When a vacancy comes up in their department, you’ll already be on their minds.
3. Make connections with other people who work in your field.
You can readily network with other industry professionals on social media. Use Google+, Twitter, and LinkedIn to find others who specialize in your area. Build an online relationship with them by commenting on their posts or by sharing those posts with others. Try finding individuals who are already employed at the companies you wish to work at. If your relationships are cordial enough, they many even offer to refer your application to the hiring manager which significantly increases your chance of getting an interview.
4. Be sure that your social media accounts won’t drive employers away.
This includes including a professional profile picture, If you do choose to post pictures of your nights out on the town or other personal photos. make sure that you take full advantage of the privacy functions. Write up a biography and include that on your personal page as well. List your work experience and state your goals for the future. You can include a link to pertinent information such as your online portfolio or your resume.
5. Establish your expertise in your chosen field.
Make sure that you stay up-to-date about the latest news in your employment area. Any comments that you post should be relevant and you shouldn’t be afraid of sharing articles or updates that are of interest to you. In fact, doing this establishes you as a leader in your field. That could be helpful when a potential employer sees your value.