In today’s job market, it is becoming more and more imperative to use social media to find a new job. In the IT industry, showing your knowledge of various social media platforms is even more important. Social media is an excellent tool to use in your IT job search. With these 4 tips, you will increase your chances of landing an interview and getting the job.
1 – Display Your Skills
Particularly in the IT industry, it is important that you use social media to display your skills in various ways. First, you should have a profile on all of the major social media networks, including LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter. This will show potential employers that you are well versed in using these key sites. It will also give you more of an opportunity to promote yourself and to connect with potential employers on social media.
2 – Keep it Professional
One of the most important things to keep in mind when using social media for your job search is to keep it professional. No employer will look favorably on a social media profile that has inappropriate photographs, status updates, tweets, etc. It is best to go through your profile and delete anything that may shed unfavorable light on you as a potential employee. Use your social media networks primarily for professional connections, as this will pay off in the end.
3 – Share Information
The only way to actually utilize your social media profiles to gain an IT job is by sharing information. One study conducted in 2012 found that 37% of employers screen their job candidates through social media networks. This means that your profile should be optimized for potential employers. On Facebook and LinkedIn, you can share your work and education history as well as skills and qualifications. Post updates, tweet, or blog about any professional accomplishments you’ve made. On LinkedIn, you can also ask your connections to write recommendations or endorse you for various skills.
One important tip to keep in mind is that you should never hide portions of your profile, try to shield your identity with a fake name, or create multiple profiles for professional and personal uses. If an employer sees that some of your profile is hidden, he or she is likely to be suspicious about why you are hiding that content. In addition, if you create multiple profiles or use a fake name to hide one profile, it is always possible that an employer could find those accounts and view them with suspicion. Instead, you should be open and honest on your social media accounts.
4 – Connect with Companies
Finally, another major way to use social media for your IT job search is to connect with the companies you are interested in via social media. You should like, connect with, or follow any employer that you are applying to work for. You can comment on their posts, share their updates, or retweet them. However, this connection should be practiced in moderation. A few shares of content with thoughtful comments will make you stand out as a qualified and engaged candidate.
