Social media has become a daily part of our lives, personally and professionally. That’s why when it comes to your job search, you need to keep social media not only in mind but top of mind. And it spans more than just LinkedIn anymore because social media has become a more significant player in the job-searching game than you might have thought.
If you’re someone using social media to help guide your job search, you’re not alone, and the same thing goes for recruiters. Prepare your profiles because 92% of them peruse social media to find potential candidates.
On average, how long have you held a job?
Determining your average length of stay with an employer gives the recruiter an idea of your stability and the quality of hire that you are. A recent study found that 39% of recruiters believe that one of the largest obstacles for an unemployed candidate looking to regain employment is leaving a company before they have been there for a year.
What information do you share?
Put yourself in the shoes of a recruiter looking at two candidates. The first candidate shares useful information on social media relevant to the industry and has a general sense of encouraging tweets or posts. The second candidate fits more into the “trolls others” category with nothing too uplifting or trade-specific incorporated into their shared content. Who would you be more apt to choose for that initial interview?
Hop much?
Recruiters and employers understand that during a difficult economic time, employees might be forced to leave a job not long after starting it. If you have a history of working at several jobs for only a year, that pattern is going to raise a red flag for recruiters. Job hopping doesn’t include layoffs, but if you do decide to move on by choice, it’s smart to consider how the move will impact your future. This doesn’t mean you should stay at a job where the negativity makes it miserable, but if you’re moving on to move on that can be looked at differently.
Who is part of your network/who are you following?
It’s common to hear that it’s not about what you know, but who you know when it comes to getting a job. As similar to the type of information you share online, recruiters will look for connections you have within your industry or if you have any of the same connections. On the flip side, recruiters will also take notice of who is following you, so be aware of the company you keep on social media.
How do you represent yourself through photos?
Your filter game can be strong, but that’s not exactly what recruiters are looking for. They want to see how you represent yourself in the photos you post. If you are out on a Saturday night with friends, do you post photos that might be considered less-than appropriate in the eyes of a recruiter? Carry yourself in a way that a future employer would be happy to welcome you in for an interview. Don’t act in a way that moves your resume from the coveted desk spot to the garbage next to said desk.
At one time, your social media presence acted as a snapshot of your personal brand. Those days are long gone, as it now represents you both personally and professionally. Keep your resume on the desk and give your social media accounts a recruiter-inviting touchup.
Meta tag Description: Representing yourself on social media both personally and professionally is vital when it comes to your job search. Prepare your accounts for the eyes of a recruiter with these helpful tips.
