Social Media and the Job Search

Social media is now part of the fabric of most of our lives.  It has definitely changed the dynamics of the job search.  Therefore, the rules have changed when you are looking for new opportunities.

As a candidate

HR recruiters are searching for you on social media for two reasons:  (1) see who you are if they are considering you as a candidate and (2) find qualified candidates for positions they are trying to fill, usually on LinkedIn.  

For option one, they want to get a glimpse into your character.  Yes, that means many of them are searching the popular sites like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram to glean if your character aligns with the company’s value system.  That also means they are searching the World Wide Web for you.  Try googling yourself to see what they will find about you.

Therefore, based on option one, it is important that you are cognizant of what you are posting on all of your sites.  Additionally, you have to monitor what you’re friends are posting about you or even tagging you in.  These innocent things can cost you the job because they may never call you based on what they find.  With that said, have you checked your privacy settings for each of your profiles?

Another suggestion is to use a different email address for your social media profiles versus what you use in your job search; I like to call it a social media email address.  Many of these sites allow one to search using email addresses.  However, the exception would be LinkedIn as that is currently the popular business social media site.  Note: when selecting an email for your résumé, use one that presents your professional identity, preferably using your government name and not your family pet name. 

Briefly, for option two, you want to have a completed LinkedIn profile that highlights your professional background.

As a job seeker

Now, that you understand most recruiters are ‘checking’ you out.  It’s your turn to conduct your own research.  Visit LinkedIn to see if your interviewer(s) have a profile.  If so, see what you may have in common.  What is their background and expertise?  Is there anything that you can use to break the ice, if necessary?  Now, do not go into the interview telling them everything you found out.  The interviewer might think you are a stalker.  Be strategic on how you use the knowledge you’ve gained.

Next, see what social media sites the company has profiles on.  As to be expected, most companies will have a profile on LinkedIn and quite a few will also have a presence on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and/or Instagram.  See what they are posting on those sites to engage their customer base.  Is there anything that might provide you with a good question(s) during the Q&A portion of your interview? However, this does not negate the fact that you will still need to research the company. 

Most importantly, if you are conducting an active job search, follow Indeed, Simply Hired, and the like on Facebook or Twitter as they are constantly posting opportunities that might just be what you are looking for.

Social media, helpful or harmful?  That’s up to you, but it is here to stay so protect your professional identity and use it to your advantage in your job search. 

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New Leaf Career Solutions is a career consulting boutique that redefines individuals and small businesses professional brands.  New Leaf partners with each client to provide quality résumés, cover letters, bios, brochures and much more.  Visit newleafcareersolutions.com to schedule an appointment.  Follow on Facebook and Twitter for daily tips.  Call today to turn over a New Leaf !!