In an age where we are all ‘connected’ and ‘plugged in’, we are ‘woke’ and ‘trending’ and just scrolling about; you would not necessarily think that social media would have benefits to your employment opportunities, but on the contrary, it can be extremely impactful. Even if you do not use the platform to look for work, it does not mean work is not using it to look for you.
So why use social media and how can it help you?
Using social media platforms to search employment options is an amazing door opening experience. Facebook and LinkedIn both use this place to allow employers to advertise and promote new job openings. Facebook itself has many pages dedicated to new job opportunities created by either employment agencies, local communities, or the companies themselves. Many hiring managers use LinkedIn as a job search engine advertising roles where they can target specific individuals in specific industries. Even Instagram has had its fair share of open job roles published on feeds, reels and stories.
Key statistics to take note of:
So, before you go looking for your new job opportunity on the usual search engines like Seek.com and CareerOne; use this time as a good excuse to be on social media for a day! All you need to do is find the company you are looking for on these platforms and see if they are hiring or even send them a Direct Message. You can search buzz words in the search fields and see if any jobs opportunities come up with what you’re looking for. Don’t just sit back and hope someone finds you on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok etc…take the initiative and find them yourself. As you can see from above, numbers don’t lie so there are plenty of opportunities on social media to find your next amazing job opportunity.
What does your profile say about you?
Since the relationship goes both ways, your resume stops being the only selling point about you. Your Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok and LinkedIn profiles are open for all perspective employers to look and view even before considering interviewing you. These accounts can make or break your employment opportunities. You may be thinking “well, I’ve got everything set to private anyway, so they can’t find me” but just know that a good online presence can work in your benefit.
You don’t need to keep everything business orientated but you can be strategic with what you post. If you want to use your social media platforms as a sales pitch for yourself, then upload posts that show your personality – keep things light-hearted, friendly and PG13. We know of people who have lost opportunities because of what they have posted online so be careful with your next tweet. Of course, in saying this, we are strong believers of freedom of speech so if you do choose to use these platforms to raise your voice, then perhaps keeping your profile set to private would be best because the reality is that there is a socially acceptable standard that employers set for potential candidates.
If you need help to update and refresh your LinkedIn account or you’re not sure how to use it to its maximum potential; send us an email or request a consult today – we can coach you through it and make your account glow.
Happy Job Hunting,
My Career Angels