Technology and Your Job Search

It’s common practice to use social media to research and “get to know” potential roommates, new friends or boyfriends, and even coworkers and bosses. Yet when we find out the reverse – others looking into our digital life to gain intel, that somehow feels like an invasion of privacy. Might as well get used to it. This is the reality of today’s technology-dependent world as studies show that more than 90 percent of employers review candidates’ social media profiles during the recruitment process.

Here are a couple tips to use this statistic to your advantage, create a personal brand and leverage your social media presence to land your next job:

Strategize: Social media is now a vital job-seeking tool as it provides ways to make connections and search for opportunities from virtually anywhere. Start by creating a strategy that spans across each of your social media channels. One critical platform for job seekers is LinkedIn, but you can also use Twitter and Facebook to start connecting with businesses and establish a presence. Fully complete and round out profiles that clearly list your experience and skills – and remove those unprofessional posts and pictures you wouldn’t want a potential employer to see.

Stay active: Social media is all about networking and sharing information, so don’t be afraid to reach out to acquaintances and friends of friends to connect. Commit to posting regularly to stay engaged with your target audience – those who can help in your search and have connections to potential companies. Create a calendar of what and when to post if it helps. Join relevant industry groups to stay up-to-date on news and trends, and possibly even job openings.

Being intentional is all about planning. For more tips, join expert Gail Parsons as she discusses “Social Media Strategies for Your Next Career” on March 18 at 1 p.m. on Mom Corps YOU, an interactive content resource featuring experts and best practices on career development and personal growth. By executing a solid social media strategy, you’ll be prepared the next time a recruiter decides to check your social profiles, and hopefully that preparation will pay off.