6. SOCIAL MEDIA & ONLINE NETWORKING TO SUPPORT YOUR CAREER SEARCH Social media has three impacts on your job search: 1. Expands your networking and information sharing options 2. Provides reputational information about your skills and abilities for potential employers 3. Offers a rich database of information to aid in your search You need to determine how you will use social media in your job search and the limitations that you should employ based on the classified nature of your position.
Your Social Media Profiles Will Be Reviewed Recruiters have many tools at their fingertips for sharing and gathering information. Most will be using LinkedIn, but others will be using Facebook and Twitter as well. If you have an active presence on Facebook or Twitter, they can be effective tools for your job search. Various studies have shown that close to 90% of recruiters will review job seekers’ social network profiles and online presence. Many of the same professional guidelines that you would use in a networking event apply to your online networking: Connect with people appropriately, be courteous and professional and acknowledge and thank others for connecting with you.
Take Control of Your Online Brand You need to know what information about you is available to potential employers online. • Google or Bing yourself and review the information that appears. Be sure to check images as well. • Do you need to change any profiles or other information you control so it’s employer appropriate and employer friendly? • Do you need to change your privacy settings to limit the information available? 14