Social Networks
Find a job through social networks
Are you Facebooked? Is your face on MySpace? What about LinkedIn? Do you tweet? Probably. But do you know how to use the social networking sites to find a job?
The development of the Internet, with sites that facilitate raltionships, offers new ways of being noticed and through social networking sites in particular.
They allow users to ‘broadcast’ their CV, enter a network of contacts or be noticed for certain initiatives. In short, ‘to fly above the rest’.
There are different types of networking sites. LinkedIn is exclusively for professionals. However, companies also use the public networks such as Facebook and Twitter. That way, the public and the companies become closer and it is the best opportunity for you to get noticed. How? By being an active and engaged user on the site.
Become famous online / Netreps
There are several ways to highlight your competencies. For instance, if a company publishes a survey on the site, why not participate? You could comment on a post, start discussions or create groups. That way, your netrep (online reputation) will grow bigger.
Google yourself and see what comes up. With an estimated 60% of employers doing just that, you’ll get a feel for what they may learn about you.
The traps to avoid:
1. Do not forget that social networking sites are communications tools before recruitment tools. Thus, always check that your profile is appropriate and know how to manage your netrep. The chances are that even if you’re not a regular blogger or social networker, it’ll be still possible to find something about you on the web. And if you’re looking for a new job, what’s found could make the difference between an offer and a rejection: it’s estimated that over a quarter of HR professionals have rejected an applicant on the basis of what appears on the web.
2. Choose the right network. LinkedIn won’t ask for your sexual orientation or your religion/belief. However, Facebook wouldn’t have such a high social value if the site didn’t ask for such information. Take time to think about what you want to communicate and check your confidentiality status.
3. By entering a group of contact, some information they published will appear on your profile. Make sure you check your settings: what your friends do shouldn’t be prejudicial to you.