Social Media: Friend or Foe?
Posted 04/19/2011 10:40 AM
By now, everyone should have heard that social media can be a wonderful tool for one's job search. Sites like LinkedIn, Twitter, and even Facebook can attract positive attention from potential employers. The trick is to be strategic with your social media use, or else it could end up doing more harm than good.
While the obvious harm can come from posting inappropriate pictures and other unprofessional content, a new danger comes from using too much social media. Employers that see an overabundance of social media use may question that individual's use of their professional time. You don't want to give the impression that you use work time for personal use.
Here are six more tips to avoid social media overkill and manage your online presence effectively:
1. Add to the conversation
LinkedIn group discussions offer a valuable opportunty to show your network that you have value to contribute.
2. Have more than one account
Have one account for your professional job search, and one extra-protected private account for personal use.
3. Score face time
Online resources should be used to gain an in-person meeting or phone conversation with employers. You are much more memorable in person than online.
4. Just say no
Don't feel obligated to accept invites of employers to your personal account. That's what your other 'professional' account is for.
5. Stay positive
Negative energy will quickly kill an employer's interest. Don't badmouth other companies, for sure, but even a string of negative posts about anything can create a negative impression of yourself.
6. Keep things to yourself
Don't publicize that you're going to an interview or just finished an interview at a company. Some companies do not like to have their recruiting process -- or that they're even having one -- publicized.
For more information about social media and your job search, check out the source article:
Questions? Contact the MSOE Career Services Office at 414-277-7120.
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| Erik Oswald | Mary Spencer | Cathlyn Ferraro |