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Social media has evolved beyond the sharing of cute pet pictures and recipe clips; it’s now an indispensable resource for employers worldwide. Business News Daily reveals that 70% of hiring managers vet candidates through their social media accounts, even if they aren’t provided by the applicants. In the fiercely competitive job market of today, your digital persona could be the deciding factor in landing your dream job. Therefore, let’s discuss several key aspects to consider regarding your social media presence in your quest to secure the ideal position.
Making it
Looking professional all around
Discover how your social media profile can swing the odds in your favor during a job hunt. Master the game with our tips! #JobHunt #SocialMediaImpactClick To TweetEstablishing a robust network and an impressive LinkedIn profile can certainly create a positive impact on prospective employers. However, that’s just the start. According to Forbes, around 65% of employers review social media platforms to assess an applicant’s professional demeanor. Therefore, ensuring a professional appearance across all your social media accounts such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter can enhance your online persona, making it more attractive to recruiters.
Participating in industry conversations
Maintaining a professional image online involves more than just a polished profile; active participation in industry dialogues can significantly enhance your standing. By commenting on the latest industry news and trends via tweets or posts, you portray yourself as an engaged and thoughtful professional. Expressing and sharing your perspectives on industry shifts demonstrates your passion for the field and indicates that you have a valuable contribution to make to potential employers.
“While traditional sites such as Monster.com and SimplyHired.com continue their reign in the job marketplace, people are supplementing their searches there with the vastly more diverse set of social networking sites. Strategically using both social media and job search sites can propel your ability to uncover opportunities in ways unheard of just a few years ago.” – TopResume
Grammatically correct posts
Although it may seem trivial, proofreading your posts can positively affect your chances of getting a job. When recruiters check your social profiles and find grammatical errors or poorly worded sentences, it may give them the impression that you lack good communication skills or worse that you’re incapable of putting in the effort. In contrast, having well-written sentences can make it seem like you’re the type to think before you post. This, in turn, makes your job application more attractive to employers.
Breaking it
Inappropriate posts
Even a single inappropriate post on your social media platforms can jeopardize your chances of landing an interview. According to Jobvite’s Social Recruiting Survey, 70% of recruiters admit that sexually suggestive posts adversely affect an applicant’s candidacy. Similarly, online references to illegal drugs repel 83% of recruiters, and 66% express the same sentiment towards profanity. As a guideline, here at CareerAlley, we advise that you refrain from posting any content that you wouldn’t want your mother to see. This includes pictures from a rowdy night out or tweets laden with profanity.
Unprofessional connections
While it’s typically acceptable to be Facebook friends with anyone and everyone, the same principle does not apply to LinkedIn. Special Counsel advises crafting a professional LinkedIn profile with meaningful connections in your industry. Aim to limit the number of less professional connections, such as family members, your hairdresser, or the staff at your local coffee shop. This recommendation is based on the fact that your connections are a reflection of your professional network. Consequently, the quality of your connections can be a deciding factor in whether you’re granted a second interview.
Inconsistencies with your application
It’s straightforward to assert your organization and attention to detail in your cover letter. However, it’s essential that your social media accounts echo these claims. For example, if recruiters see a selfie with a cluttered room in the background on your Instagram, it could convey a conflicting message. Of course, honesty in your application is paramount, but consistency in your narrative and discretion about your posts are also important.
Ultimately, understanding that making alterations to your online behavior isn’t overly challenging is crucial. It merely necessitates a degree of consideration and responsibility—attributes beneficial in other life areas as well. In an era where private spaces are diminishing, being cognizant of what you reveal to the public is essential, particularly when potential employers are part of your audience.
