Make Social Media Work For You, Not Against You

Last updated Jul 27, 2022

Written by:  Graeme Deegan

Social media is a fundamental part of our lives now and nearly everyone below the age of 90 is on at least one social media platform. Some of these platforms are business oriented and others purely social.

Not so many years ago, a well written CV was the only way for a candidate to try and get an interview or at least a phone call from a recruiter or prospective employer. Now days, recruiters, in particular, use social media to find and reach out to potential candidates who may not be actively job hunting. Also, diligent recruiters and employers use social media to build a picture of prospective candidates well before the first call or interview. It is essential that job hunters understand this and inspired by a recent article by seek.com.au, here are a few reminders.

Look right for business

On business platforms such as LinkedIn, attach a photo that is reasonably current and portrays you in a way that a prospective employer can imagine you being a natural fit in their company. A few suggestions are:

  • Unless you have just graduated, don’t attach your graduation photo. That might have been a great day for you but be proud of your experience as well.
  • Holiday snaps are great to share with friends and family but they don’t belong on a business platform. Post a photo of you at work or at least a neutral setting, not lying on a beach on Boracay.
  • Have a photo that matches the sort of job and industry you are interested in. For example, if you are looking for a construction site role, a photo of you in a hard and overalls is great, an expensive looking suit may be confusing to a potential employer.

Be consistent

The main employment and educational details on your CV should match your online profile as closely as possible. The CV is more detailed but it causes confusion when dates or other basic employment details don’t match.

Build your brand

Portray the image that you want employers to see. One good way to do this is to become a follower of companies and their leaders that match your interests and aspirations. When you see a post then consider making a sensible comment or at least ‘liking’ it. Don’t overdo this however, as a prospective employer may think you spend too much time on social media. It’s a matter of balance.

Protect your brand

Many people let their guard down when using purely social media. The internet is an open book so photos, videos and written comments can be viewed by anyone. Make sure, particularly when you are job hunting, that there is nothing on any platform that could potentially embarrass you with a prospective employer.

Remember your job search may be one of the most important things you are doing right now. These ideas may help you succeed.

By: Curran Daly + Associates

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