Most of you have used social media both professionally and personally. But, are you making the most of your social media activity? It’s no secret that recruiters and HR professionals are using social media to vet resumes and candidates. What can you do to help make a positive impression? We’ve pulled together a few tips to ensure your putting your best social foot forward.
1. Share your real self. Who are you? Craft a clear and concise “Elevator Pitch.” Be sure to include it on your LinkedIn profile, as well as your Facebook page and Twitter profile.
2. Show off your brand. Design online Business Cards that include your Name, Contact Information, LinkedIn profile URL and Online Resume URL. Be creative and have fun – give yourself some brand equity.
3. Make sure you can be found. Get your resume online. Post it to Emurse.com for easy viewing.
4. Tweet often. Twitter is a great way to communicate with the others. It’s also a fantastic way to get up-to-the-minute reports on industry news and trends. But, it’s really a terrific way to network. Be sure to follow key twitter users like @JobAngels and connect with Tweeps in your geographic area or work for companies you’d love to work for.
5. Get LinkedIn. LinkedIn is the most widely used social media tool for professionals. That said, you need to make sure your LinkedIn profile is outstanding. It should be as complete as your resume. You should also aim to collect a minimum of 5 recommendations. And, don’t forget to include a summary paragraph of what you’re looking for and any special skills and accolades.
6. Join the club. As part of LinkedIn, you need to participate in groups relevant to your industry or market. Good groups to also participate are JobAngel’s group.
7. Track your online “hits.” Be sure to track when your resume has been viewed or downloaded, then follow up. Jibberjobber.com offers great job tracking software. Following up is the key to breaking through the hundreds of other resumes sitting on the desk above yours!
8. Let Google be your friend. Use the power of search to research company press releases or news (or anything) and include it in email communications to the contact you are reaching out. Going this extra mile will help set you apart and show them you are serious about their company. Plus, flattery will get you everywhere.
9. Pay attention to the blogs. Much content and advice can be gleamed from the blogoshere.
10. Please forward when you can. What goes around, comes around. So be sure to spread the word, help out a friend and leverage your resources. You never know what favors will be turned into gold someday.
Social media has certainly changed the way we all work and play. For HR, it’s made an incredible impact. Remember the days when a simple newspaper ad brought in hundreds of resumes? Now with Web, a one line job opening draws thousands of resumes – and that’s within the first hour of the post.
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