Using Social Media as a Job Search Tool

You may have noticed that searching for a job has changed over the years. What was once limited to newspaper listings and “help wanted” signs has now opened up into the vast world of the internet, where technology can assist with every step of the employment process.

One tool that now benefits many job seekers is the use of social media. The platforms available can make your search easier than ever and broaden your horizons to discover more available opportunities on a daily basis.

Let’s take a look at the most effective ways to use social media as a job-search tool.

Network Through LinkedIn

When it comes to taking advantage of social media for your search, the first place you should create a profile — or update your existing one — is LinkedIn. This platform is used by employers more often than you might think, and it allows them to see your skills, education, and employment history. LinkedIn’s best feature, however, may be that it enables you to connect with other professionals by way of their endorsements tool, which allows other professionals in your network to acknowledge a particular skill you have. It is very common for users to find gainful employment by connecting with others who may know about an opportunity.

Advertise Your Availability

When searching for employment, you want everyone to know you’re looking for and open to new opportunities. Be sure to log on to all of your social media accounts so that friends, family, and former co-workers know you’re looking.

If people are aware that you’re in the market for a new job, they’ll remember you whenever they hear about one you might qualify for. In fact, many people find employment by posting on Facebook and asking if someone knows of any opportunities.

Research the Company and Hiring Manager

Instead of waiting for a potential employer to find you, it’s better to research them first. Take a look at the company’s social media accounts to find information about it and their hiring manager. Learning what you can about whom you’ll be interviewing with can improve your chances of being hired. Doing thorough research and displaying your knowledge in an interview lets the hiring manager know that you’re serious about working for their particular company and aren’t just going on a dozen interviews in a week, hoping one of the companies hires you.

Watch What You Say and Delete Questionable Content

Social media is a great tool for finding a position, but it’s important to think of how your current social media posts and pictures could keep you from getting a job. While there are certain laws in some states regarding the use of social media profiles when making an employment decision, it’s better to play it safe.

Go through all of your posts — or at least those from the previous several months — and make sure you didn’t post anything rude, negative, or inappropriate. The same is true with pictures that some might find offensive. You might even want to make your Facebook profile private and/or consider deleting certain profiles, at least until you’ve found a job.

Remember also that your university and the people you interact with in your courses can help in your search, so it may be helpful to make social connections with your classmates and follow your university’s social media pages. Take advantage of your alumni network and career services center to help prepare you for your career and move you forward on your path to success.