If you are searching for a job wisely, you must have done a lot of research about cover letters, resumes, job interviews, and almost everything that has to do with effective job searching. Whether you are looking for Vancouver jobs or one from your local area, you should take advantage also of the power of social media when looking for a job.
Social media is widely known as a means to communicate and meet people, but do you know that it also plays a very important role in the success of your job search? What you’re going to learn here is how you can use various social media platforms to your advantage.
1. Keep all your public information clean.
This seems like a no-brainer, but unfortunately, many job searchers take it for granted. When we say keep your public information clean, we don’t just mean getting rid of wild party pictures and profanity. Make sure that your social media posts are not offensive and extremely aggressive.
2. You don’t need to have an account on each and every social media platform.
If you want to be seen as active on social media, this doesn’t mean that you have to have an account on every social media platform there is. It is actually much better to have just a couple of accounts that contain well-crafted profile and posts. In general, you need to have a Twitter or Facebook account, and of course a LinkedIn account.
3. Don’t use a codename or any silly handle.
As much as possible, you want your social media profiles to have your real name and identity. This makes your account look professional, and it will also be easier for prospective employers to find you if you’re using your real name on your social media accounts.
4. Be consistent with your personal branding.
Aside from using the same name and photo, your personal brand should also be consistent in all your accounts. Your goal is to make people know who you are and what you can do.
5. Put your accounts in your job search materials.
Your social profiles serve as a representation of you and what you do, so it is important that you include them in your resume and cover letter. When sending emails, you should also mention your Twitter handle so you will be easier to find.
6. Social media is not meant for professional communications.
There is certainly nothing wrong with promoting or advertising yourself through various social media platforms, but remember that this is not where you should communicate with your potential employers.
7. Have a plan.
Now that your name is everywhere on the internet, what are you going to do should you get noticed online? Keep in mind that promoting yourself on social media is just the first step, and the next ones are the more crucial ones. Are you going to make a call to the employer? Are you going to drop by their office? Whatever it is, you should have a definite plan of action.
The internet is such a powerful tool for job hunting, especially if you are looking to work overseas or trying to get any Vancouver jobs, for instance. Employers now tend to use social media to find the right candidates for their jobs, so you should present yourself well and professionally in your accounts.
Cecile Peterkin is a certified career and retirement coach, and a registered member of the Career Professionals of Canada and the International Coach Federation. She is also the Founder and Senior Career Strategist at Cosmic Coaching Centre, provider of career and life management services for middle managers and mid-career professionals across Canada, United States and Europe.