One way to meet contacts using the Internet is through “social networking.” If you use them, be sure to think about your goals. Make sure what you write on these sites is well written by typing your text into a word processor (such as Microsoft Word) first. Get feedback about what you have posted. Use your Elevator Speech (pdf). People sometimes even post their resume on these sites. Find out more social media tips at Socialnomics.
Be careful.
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Never list your address, phone number, or bank accounts. Don’t give anyone your social security number.
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Be positive. Don’t argue with people online. Employers may see this post.
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Scammers may try to sell you training or job search assistance that should be free.
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Common Social Networking Websites |
LinkedIn
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Many professionals use LinkedIn. They connect with others in their career field and learn about events and trends.
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To start, create your profile. This lists your skills, career goals, and past jobs—like a virtual resume.
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Next, connect with people you know. You can ask them to post references for you. You can find others in your field by seeing the contacts from people you know. You can ask to add them to your “connections.”
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Find out how/if you’re connected to the places you want to work. Use this connection as an entry point—ask for an introduction or an informational interview.
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Research employers and even find current job postings.
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Search for groups with your career interests. These groups update information often. You can ask questions and get job leads in these groups.
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Twitter
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Twitter sends very short messages to many people at one time.
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You can use it to update "followers" on your career or find job leads.
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Employers use it to tell people about job openings. They also use it to find out more about applicants.
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Job seekers post their basic information. They may link to their resumes or blogs.
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You can also use this to find out current news, trends, and information by following experts in your industry or companies you are targeting.
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Facebook
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Facebook is a place to connect with your friends and people you know.
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You can search for people who work at employers you’d like to learn about and ask to connect with them about your job search.
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If you do not plan to use Facebook for professional purposes make sure that you are ok with an employer seeing your profile- even if you don’t use it professionally, they may look you up.
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