Whether you’re a friend, fan, follower or simply LinkedIn,
there’s no denying social networking Web sites offer valuable job
search resources.
E-networking can connect you with contacts, including current and
former colleagues, former bosses and coworkers, and even
recruiters, who can help you land a new or better job. However,
this form of professional networking has a social component, and
you should keep your contacts in mind when posting personal
announcements and photos (nix the spring break pictures!).
By utilizing the basic posting and searching functions on sites
such as LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook, you can capitalize on
numerous creative techniques to supplement your online job
search:
- Basic networking allows you to broaden your pool of contacts
with people you may or may not know, but with whom you share common
interests. As your contacts post about their companies and/or
opportunities in your field, you can utilize them as an inside
resource.
- Status updates offer you a forum to update your contacts about
your job search and skill set.
- Profile headlines allow you to uniquely distinguish yourself
from other professionals in your field. Use a creative, but brief
caption (i.e.: Consultant vs. Award Winning Ad Exec.) to promote
your profile and keep people reading.
- Company searches allow you to seek out and connect with the
specific organizations that interest you most.
- Job postings are listed frequently by employers and
employees. Network and connect with those who share your
interests and work in your field and you’re more likely to discover
regular leads.
- Blog links let you post your blog announcements on your
profiles. Some even update automatically with each post, so
remember to keep the topics professional and engaging.
- Cross-integration allows you to pull conversations from one
social site to another. Twitter Link, for instance, posts your
tweets on your LinkedIn profile. So, those contacts who are not on
Twitter, can still read your updates.
- Recommendations provide professional authenticity to your
profiles. Request them from your contacts, but only post those that
highlight your professional skills and potential.
