Social media is an essential tool in your job-hunting arsenal. But it’s also an area where you can easily get tripped up, especially if you also use social media to keep up with friends. Here are some essential dos and don’ts for job hunters.
Do: Optimize Your Profiles
Choose a professional photo rather than a selfie. Summarize your career in the About Me section. Work in relevant keywords in a natural-sounding manner. Make a statement with your headline, and always link to your portfolio. Many people find it best to create a separate work profile rather than using the same profile for work and fun.
Do: Stay Active
Post regularly. Share relevant articles along with your thoughts on them. Create short videos that highlight your skills. Write educational pieces for others in your industry, such as what to expect on the warehouse floor or how to work your way up to shift lead. Exactly what you post doesn’t really matter, as long as it shows your knowledge and expertise in your field.
Do: Pay Attention to Job Postings
Follow the companies you would like to work for, and keep an eye out for their job postings. Many businesses now recruit primarily through social media, so responding quickly can give you a leg up. Keep your reply short and to the point, and be sure to carefully follow any instructions in the post.
Don’t: Overshare
Carefully curate the content on your professional social media. Avoid the temptation to go into detail about why you left your most recent position or to divulge anything that might be proprietary. Always think before you type.
Don’t: Complain
Job hunting can be frustrating, but your professional social media is not the right forum for venting. Present yourself in a positive light by keeping things upbeat. You can always complain on your personal social media, provided you have it set to friends only.
Don’t: Act Pushy
In the social media age, it’s easier to get hold of people than ever before. But that doesn’t mean you should chase them down. Recruiters and hiring managers are busy. Respect their time by contacting them only when needed and keeping your messages short and professional.
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Cardinal Staffing has been matching candidates across Ohio and Michigan with just the right light industrial, administrative, and professional positions for nearly 30 years. With deep roots in these areas, we’re experts on the local job markets. Contact us to learn more or start searching for your next position today!
