If you are like most of the rest of America, the chances are high that you are an active social media user. What you may not be doing that you should, however, is using your social media profile to land your next job. While social media hasn't yet taken the place of more traditional job searching and career development methods, it is a powerful tool that can help you find and secure your next job. Here's how.
Career Development: Social Media Tips
1. Get Job Alerts
Follow companies that you would be interested in working for on social media. The next time that a position or a career development and networking opportunity opens up and they post about it online, you'll be among the first to know.
2. Research the Company Culture
Employers don't always look for the person with the most knowledge and career development experiences. They also want someone who will fit in with the company culture as well. Get to know the company through its social media channel, and then use that information to highlight how you would be a great fit.
3. Make Connections
If your career development goals require a connection at a company, social media is a great way to find one. Send a friend request to a friend of a friend at a well known company and strike up a relationship. They may just put in a good word for you.
4. Get to Know Your Interviewer
If you can find out ahead of time who will be conducting the interviews, it's a smart career development idea to research him on social media. If he has a specific value, passion or career development goal, find a way to bring it up in your interview and you will catch his attention for sure.
5. Establish Your Reputation
Once you get the attention of an employer, she will likely research you online. It is of great importance in your career development journey to ensure that you take control of what future employers might see. Make sure your social media accounts present you in the best light. Highlight your various career development tasks without seeming fake or overly polished.
