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Over the past few years, job seekers are starting to use more tools in their job search. For example, instead of just posting a resume to Monster or CareerBuilder, they are using social media sites like Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.
People of all age groups are using social media these days. I recently read an article that pointed out that people 35 and over are the fastest growing demographic on Facebook and the majority of Twitter users are between 25 and 54 years old. Here are some tips on using social media to find a job/fill a position.
The first step you should take is to type your name in quotes into a search engine like Google and see what appears. If you see something you don’t like, I can guarantee that others will see the same thing when they search your name. If you see something that you don’t want someone else to see, start working on removing it from wherever it’s posted.
Whether you are looking for a new job or looking to fill a position, you need to get the word out. No matter what social media site you are using, let your friends/connections/followers know you are looking. You should be specific and tell everyone what type of job you’re looking for. Even though they may not know of any openings or people for the position at that exact moment, it’s possible they may hear something in the upcoming days/weeks. This is especially true if you are connected with friends and family members because people who know you personally have more of an interest in helping you succeed and do well.
Many people are starting to add the URL for their Twitter and LinkedIn profiles on resumes and in email signatures. While I haven’t hopped on the Twitter bandwagon, I am very active on LinkedIn and Facebook. I must point out that I recommend having your Facebook settings set to “private”, not “public” (you don’t want the potential employer/job seeker to see how drunk you got at last year’s Super Bowl party). Since you have a “private” Facebook account, you should not include a link to your Facebook account because people won’t be able to view it. While I don’t recommend including a link to your personal Facebook account, you could include a link to your professional company page on Facebook.
On your personal social media accounts, you should “join” or “like” pages of companies, organizations or industries that interest you. This way, you can stay up-to-date with news and promotions. Since I’m on the subject of personal social media accounts, be aware if you have a personal account and a separate professional account. I recommend only having one personal or professional account, not both. You don’t want to get confused and accidentally post something on the wrong account (while you may say “that will never happen to me”, it’s much easier to occur than you think).
Still skeptical about social media? According to a study by DEI Worldwide, nearly two out of three American adults surveyed said they used social media in the last month and another 64% said they’d like to see companies use social media for customer service purposes. Another 59% said corporate use of social media makes them more likely to see a company as accessible and responsive.
What are you waiting for? Start getting active in social media today!