Using Social Media in Your Job Search

We all know about Social Media.  It's hard not to at this point.  The big three...LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook, are all part of everyday life.  Even if you're not using all three, you're at least aware of what they are.  Or you should be, anyway, because they can mean a big difference in the amount of time it takes you to land that next job.  If you use Social Media as a job search and networking resource, you'll find better opportunities and grow your network faster and more effectively than ever before. You just need to know how to use it and which ones to use.

Related:  LinkedIn Basics

The most obvious place to start if you're looking to make a change in your career is LinkedIn.  Before you really start using it, make sure your profile is up to date, professional and well written.  This is the first place people will find you so be certain you're making the best first impression you can.  Once that's taken care of, you're ready to get out there.  On LinkedIn you can follow the companies you want to work for, join groups focused on areas you're interested in and find jobs listed that show how many people have already applied.  Following companies doesn't need much explanation.  Just search for the company's business page and click follow.  You'll get notifications on their updates, including job posts.  You can also see which of their employees are on LinkedIn.  You may even find people you know and having a person inside is the quickest way to a job.  Start following groups that focus on things like employment, job searching and whatever industry you happen to work in.  You'll find information on jobs, tips on how best to apply and make new connections in your field.  You can also apply for jobs directly from LinkedIn.  The best part about this is that when you read a job description it will tell you how many people have already applied.  If hundreds of people have applied, you know not to waste your time.  If you're not using LinkedIn to it's full potential, it's time to get started.

Another great place to get information on jobs, tips on your job search or advice on interviewing is Pinterest.  Now that they've started offering business accounts, more and more businesses are joining.  You can find follow companies in your industry and get an idea of what's important to them by what they're pinning to their boards.  This insight can help when crafting your cover letter to them as part of your application when they have an opening.  You can also follow companies that focus on career coaching and job placement.  They offer loads of advice on everything from interviewing and networking to dressing properly (and fashionably!) for your interview.  Pinterest isn't just for great recipes, anymore.  If you haven't yet, go check it out.  If you're wondering who to follow, take a look at our followers.  There are a lot of school alumni associations, employment agencies and career coaching services.

Related:  Twitter Basics 

The next best place to spend some quality social media time is on Twitter.  Again, you can follow companies you want to work for, career coaching professionals, and industry experts on any area you're interested in.  There are even employment agencies that will post job openings that aren't posted anywhere else.  This means there's less competition for the job and, more importantly, your resume will get in the hands of an actual person that is in a position to make a decision about who gets hired.  If you need ideas on who to follow, you can always subscribe to the Career Dragon lists.  Our lists are comprised of people and companies that tweet job openings and career advice.  Out of any Social Media platform, Twitter is the easiest to get in contact with people and start a conversation.  And once someone at the company you want to work for gets to know you a bit, you're much more likely to get an interview.

Social Media is not only a powerful resource in your career development, but a necessary one.  Anyone who is not using Social Media is at a disadvantage.  Many companies won't even interview someone without a LinkedIn profile and people who can't be found online are viewed as outdated and unable to keep up with today's career demands.  But it's not a bad thing, Social Media is fun.  Especially Pinterest.  Get started there when you have a little extra time.  You're going to get sucked in.  But you have a great excuse, it's all in the name of growing your career.