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September 2009 |
Social Networking May Link You to Your First Job
The increased popularity of social media gives new grads facing a tough job market a good opportunity to network. If you know the ropes on social networking sites such as LinkedIn®, Facebook®, and Twitter™, you can leverage this online presence to look for jobs. Whom you connect to, "friend," or "follow" may actually lead to a job opportunity.Your friends aren't the only ones on social networking sites. Nearly 17% of employers use social networking sites as part of their recruitment effort (that's up from 11% in 2006), and 38% of those employers say they check candidate profiles. More than half of employers use the sites to network with potential candidates.*
Think of your online profile as an extension of your résumé. It's a tool you can use to showcase your strengths, make connections, and get recommendations from people in your field. Try these tips for polishing up your profile: Put your best face forward. Include a tasteful photo of yourself (preferably a head shot). Proofread your profile and include up-to-date, accurate information about you. Use keywords to describe your qualifications to make sure your profile pops up in relevant searches. Think before you post. Remember that potential employers may find your profile, photos, blogs, and more with a quick Google search, so keep all your online content job-worthy. Make meaningful connections. Join online professional groups or job search groups. Connect with alumni from your college, particularly those in your field. These connections may generate job leads or additional networking opportunities. Join the discussion. Social networking sites are designed to be interactive. Ask questions, post answers, reconnect with people you know, and get to know new people. Contributing to this online community increases your own chances for word-of-mouth opportunities. Surf employer sites. Some organizations have their own social media profiles. Seek out prospective employers, visit their sites, and become a "fan" or a "friend" – whatever it takes to get your foot in the door! * Source: National Association of Colleges and Employers Job Outlook 2008 survey.
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