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 (ie: 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.
