In this day and age where social media has become a household name almost everywhere, it may be time to start using those channels when you’re looking for a job. I would not recommend using them as the only avenue for searching for open positions and posting your resume, but they are certainly available as additional resources and growing in popularity among companies and recruiters. Here are some suggestions for utilizing them as tools for finding a job.

1. Create a complete LinkedIn profile. LinkedIn is designed as a professional networking site, and I highly recommend using it as a platform for sharing your resume and researching open job positions. According to LinkedIn’s About page, it is the world’s largest professional network on the internet. Members can display their picture, work and education experience, and resume in a clear and succinct layout, which recruiters and companies would be able to locate when conducting a job search. Members can also connect with other members, companies, and groups on LinkedIn, sharing information with each other, helping to make new connections, and getting feedback from group forums. Because of this site’s growing popularity for recruiters and companies who are conducting candidate searches, LinkedIn is probably the most valuable social media platform when it comes to finding a new position.

2. Make sure your online profiles show the best side of you. Many employers will do research on potential candidates they are considering, and what that candidate’s pictures, status updates, tweets, or profiles display can have a significant impact on whether or not the employer decides to contact them or hire them. Also, providing access to your resume on the different platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn spreads a wider net with which recruiters and companies can find you.

3. Make connections with others in your industry. Whether it’s following someone on Twitter, liking their Facebook page, joining a LinkedIn group, or adding someone to your Google Plus circles, these connections put you in contact with people who probably know of some opportunities for you. Also, be sure to ask your friends, relatives, and even acquaintances to let you know if they are aware of any opportunities. Chances are good that at least one person in your different circles is very likely know of something that would be a good fit for you and would be more than happy to point you in the right direction.

4. Engage in conversations. You can glean a lot of valuable information from LinkedIn Group discussions and Twitter chats, whether it’s finding out market trends for hiring, getting feedback on helpful job training, or learning helpful tips on the whole job search process. The advice you receive could really put you on the road to success by helping you focus your search and better prepare yourself for a potential new position.

Questions or comments? We’d love to hear from you! Feel free to post your comment below or contact us directly.