In today’s digital age, social media has become an integral part of our lives. People are not only using social media for entertainment but also for business purposes, including job hunting. Job searching on social media platforms has gained immense popularity in recent years, and with the advent of LinkedIn, recruiters have started using social media as their primary tool for hiring.
While social media has made job searching more accessible and convenient, it is important to remember that it can be a double-edged sword. Therefore, it is essential to follow certain dos and don’ts of job searching on social media to avoid any mishaps and to increase the chances of getting hired.
Here are some dos of job searching on social media:
1. Optimize your Social Media Profiles: Your social media profiles, especially LinkedIn, can act as your online resume. Therefore, it’s crucial to optimize your profile to showcase your skills, education, and professional achievements. Make sure you use a professional profile picture, and keep your bio and job history updated.
2. Research your Potential Employers: Before applying for any job or posting anything on social media, research your potential employers’ values and goals. This will allow you to tailor your online presence to their values and become an attractive candidate.
3. Network Appropriately: Start networking with individuals who work in your desired industry, connect with recruiters, and join groups relevant to your profession. Networking with professionals can be an excellent way to learn more about the industry, gain insight into job opportunities and to get introduced to potential employers.
4. Use Keywords: Use relevant keywords in your social media profiles to make it easier for recruiters to find you. Use relevant and common search keywords to help to rank your profile higher in search results. This will increase your chances of being noticed by potential employers.
Here are some don’ts of job searching on social media:
1. Don’t bad-mouth your current or past employers: Never post anything negative about your current or past employers. Posting negative comments or remarks can come back to haunt you, and employers may view this as a red flag.
2. Don’t share unprofessional content: Avoid sharing inappropriate posts, political views, or controversial content on your social media profiles. Keep your profile professional and free from any negative or immature content.
3. Don’t lie about your qualifications: Be honest about your qualifications. Don’t exaggerate or lie about your education, work history, or skill sets. Lying about your qualifications can damage your reputation and can lead to disappointment when potential employers discover the truth.
4. Don’t ignore privacy settings: Make sure you set your privacy settings appropriately. Don’t let your personal life override your professional image. Avoid posting pictures or leaving comments that ruin your chances of getting hired.
In conclusion, social media has a significant impact on the job search process. Therefore, it’s essential to use social media in the right way to increase your chances of getting hired. The dos and don’ts listed above will help you create a professional and positive image on social media, substantially boost your employability, and avoid any missteps that can hurt your career.
