Social media has revolutionized the way job seekers can find new opportunities. Earlier we, shared with you tools and apps that will give you the leading edge in the job search process by making your search more efficient. After you find all those great jobs to apply for, the work is just beginning. Here are resources and tips on how you can use digital tools and social media to stand out and land your next job.
PREPARING FOR YOUR JOB SEARCH
1. Clean up your digital footprints- Whether it’s at home or online, no one likes dirty footprints.We have all heard horror stories of someone losing their job or not getting a job over something they posted on their personal social media page. Make a habit of regularly cleaning up your online profiles because your online reputation IS your reputation. Simple things such as checking your Facebook privacy settings to ensure that anything too personal isn’t visible, making sure your Twitter stream isn’t filled with obscenities and doing a quick Google search for your name to see if anything that might deter an employer shows up can make a big difference. If you find something unworthy on your own profiles, hide or remove it completely. If you find something posted by someone else, do your best to find the source of that post to get it removed.
2. Treat your LinkedIn profile just like you would your resume- Go over it with a fine toothed comb for any spelling errors. Make sure you’ve claimed your unique LinkedIn URL. (Doing this is simple, you’ll see your URL right under your profile photo when you’re in the “Edit Profile” mode). Update your summary and experience using keywords and skills required in the current jobs you’re applying for. Request former colleagues and partners for LinkedIn recommendations on the work you’ve done to demonstrate more credibility.
3. Buy your own domain name- Whether you’re a job seeker or not, this is a great way to brand yourself as a professional. If your name is already taken, purchase a similar variation. You can use this page for your blog, online portfolio or even as a landing page with links to your other social media pages (After you’ve cleaned up your digital footprints on those pages of course). Even if you don’t think you need your own domain, buy it anyway. In addition to looking tech savvy, you’ll improve the search engine ranking for your own name when people search for you.
4. Use a permanent and professional email address – If you’re still using an email address from your cable company such as @cox.net or @san.rr.net you’re demonstrating a lack of understanding on the importance of having a reliable email address. If you change cable companies, your email address is gone. Using an email address from another company to search for jobs is also suspicious. Use a permanent email address, preferably your own domain. If this isn’t possible, register for a gmail address. It used to be popular to claim an email address such as beachman21@hotmail or sunshinechick@yahoo, etc. In this day and age it’s important to brand yourself professionally through your email address because often when corresponding to set up an interview, your email is the first impression your employer has of you. Use your real name so the person emailing you back has a reference to remember you before and after the interview.
DURING THE JOB SEARCH PROCESS
5. Utilize RSS feeds and save “Advanced Job Searches”- This is an efficient way to learn about new jobs posted that fit your criteria. Using RSS feeds will vary by website but you’re often able to customize criteria for jobs you’re seeking such as location, keywords in the job title, level, etc under “Advanced Search” options. After typing in your criteria for a new job you’ll often find an option to “Save” the search. Each time you return to the site, rather than searching again, you can go back and review your “Saved Searches” to see if anything new has been posted. Some sites also offer an RSS Feed you can subscribe to for your specific job search. You can add the RSS feed to your browser bookmarks for easy access in reviewing new job postings.
6. Tweet relevant industry tips and articles- As you do your research from reading blogs, Tweet/share articles you find beneficial to people in your industry. Also post tips you’ve learned from your research. Even if your employer doesn’t check your Twitter account, the act of posting valuable information makes you more resourceful and knowledgeable. In the case that they do check our account, you’ll have a wealth of great information posted for the world to see.
7. Read blogs about current industry related topics- Make sure you do as much research as possible not only about the companies you’re applying for (that’s a given) but the entire industry. When you step into the interview, it will be beneficial to understand major news that’s happening in your field. Your knowledge will shine through during the interview process. Blogs provide you with personal insight from people who work directly at the companies and industries you’re interested in. If you’re able to mention posts written directly by someone at the company you’re interviewing with, you might score a few bonus points.
DURING THE INTERVIEW PROCESS
8. Look up your interviewers on social media before the interview- If you understand the career history of your interviewer you’ll be able to speak to things that may related to him/her. You’ll also have insight on their background which will help you understand why certain questions they’re asking may be important. You might even discover that you attended the same school as someone interviewing you and be able to build rapport with commonalities.
9. Follow up through email, social media AND a thank you card- After the interview, immediately follow up with a thank you email stating your gratitude for the interview and enthusiasm for the position. Also let the interviewer know you’ll connect with them on LinkedIn or another relevant social network. This way they expect your request and know you’ll be reaching out to them. In addition to following up digitally, add an old fashioned personal touch by sending a hand written thank you. This is a unique way to stay top of mind and demonstrate your appreciation.
10. Don’t jump the gun on posting about your new job- Do not post anything about working for your future employer or getting the job until you’ve actually started working there. Even after you start, you need to be mindful of any social media policies the company may have in place. Understand the policies on using their logo to ensure you’re not misusing it. There have been too many times where employees have gotten themselves fired through posting on social media. We know you’re excited about your big accomplishment on the new job, but be patient with sharing the news on social media.
All of the tips listed above can be used as a guideline throughout your entire job search process. It’s not easy to land a new job, but social media can definitely be on your side and help you get there if used correctly.