Gone are the times when looking for a job meant going through the classifieds in your local paper and sending covering letters and resume’s by post to prospective employers. In the twenty-first century things are different. The internet is now the primary port of call when searching for jobs. The quick turnaround and convenience of applying for jobs over the internet has made the process far simpler than it once was. From the evolution of the internet has come social media, which is itself revolutionising the jobs market.
So why should you use social media for your job search? As a result of social media there has never been a better way to contact a company’s HR department. It can cut out the middle man; in this case the recruitment agent. Internal recruiters are using online resources more and more and it is often the top way to get to know what a person is about. It can also widen choice as you can apply for jobs in Birmingham, Liverpool jobs, anywhere in fact.
How then can you take full advantage of social media and what are the things you should and shouldn’t do? It’s all about networking. Networking is often an ubiquitous term in the job market and online can make it easier than you think. It is likely that you already have a wide array of online acquaintances that can help you get your foot in the door for that fantastic job. Social media can be a great way to built yourself a brand that can be used to showcase your passion in a way a CV cannot. Online you have a plethora of opportunities to showcase your personality and passion. Produce a blog or an online portfolio of your work that relates to the area you are interested in and you will not fail to be noticed.
With all the opportunities for online jobs there is bound to be a downside. Companies are more than ever looking at social media to vet prospective employees. This is a side of the social media landscape that can backfire; especially if you have some questionable images or stories on your facebook wall that you would not want prospective employers to be privy to. Make sure that you keep your professional networks proper and entirely accessible, but keep your personal networks available for only friends and family.
So whether you are looking at for jobs in IT or advertising jobs, keep these tips in mind and social media will work for you.
