LinkedIn may be the first social network most people think of when it comes to a job search. However, personal branding through social media can take place on any platform, from Instagram to Twitter, Facebook to TikTok. For job seekers, here are our top tips to maximise positive exposure through strategically using social media channels.
Complete a social media audit
Yes, you’re probably being Googled. If you’re openly looking for a new job, chances are recruiters will check out your social media profile before inviting you for an interview.
So first, scan the landscape of your social media footprint and take note of all the places where you show up. Are your social media profiles public or private? Did you stop updating your blog years ago? Do you post content that shows your talents or interests? These are questions you should have in mind when you start combing through your online presence. Consider what your social media profiles say about you to someone who has never met you and if you are satisfied with the picture it portrays.
You may want to make certain profiles private, create secondary accounts or start purposefully sharing content that matches the job you are seeking.
Overhaul and update your LinkedIn profile
Next, take action. Just like offline networking, online networking shouldn’t just be about what you can gain from other people. It’s critical to create value for others and show what you can do, instead of just asking for favours. Be proactive and write a recommendation for others on LinkedIn, update with your current professional headshot and headline, include recent relevant projects and accomplishments, skills and volunteer work.
Join Facebook groups
You may think of Facebook as merely a place to keep up with the personal lives of friends and family. But recently, Facebook has actively boosted groups, which can be a place to join for both professional information and networking with new people. Go to facebook.com/groups/feed/ or click on the groups tab to filter your news feed by groups and see suggested groups to join. This will help expand your network outside of people you currently know and can include career-focused information by being intentional with which groups you join.
Find jobs on Instagram
Just like Facebook, if you go beyond the surface of Instagram’s selfies and adventures, you can find a valuable source of professional information through hashtags and job listings. In this pursuit, actively use the search box instead of passively scrolling through your feed. For example, try searching “careers” to find job listing accounts from companies that have dedicated HR and recruitment accounts on Instagram. The network also makes it possible to follow hashtags like #careertips so they show up periodically in your feed.
Use social media as a learning tool
Whether a job search is active or passive, social media can always be leveraged to grow and learn. For example, YouTube offers a trove of tutorial videos that can teach countless important career skills. Instead of wasting time on social media, use it for your professional advantage.
Reach out to others – when relevant
What’s the etiquette for social media messages regarding a job search? It’s no different than using any other channel. A personal message to someone who can help make a connection or introduction can be welcome – as long as it’s relevant and doesn’t come across as spam. Do your research prior to firing off a direct message to show that you’re interested in talking to this person specifically, rather than spamming your network.
No matter which social media networks you use, the biggest shift to make a difference is to use them mindfully instead of mindlessly. Rather than letting an algorithm solely dictate your feed, consider your needs, goals and what you want to get out of visiting the site. Then take action accordingly.
Finally, remember that social media is just one tool in your job search, so make sure you don’t just post or tweet at the expense of networking, polishing your CV and developing your career in other ways. By combining traditional career advancement with social media, there’s no doubt you’ll accelerate your job search.
Ready to start looking for your next role? Get in touch with your local Brook Street consultant today to discuss.
