When you’re on the hunt for a new job, you want to use all the resources available to you in order to boost your chances of landing that dream role. Technology and social media have become integral parts of our daily life and they can really step up your job search if you make the most of them, from building a professional online presence, to producing some creative content that showcases your skills.
Here are a few ways that you can use social media and technology to assist your job hunt.
1) Optimise your LinkedIn profile
A lot of employers will check out your LinkedIn profile when considering you for a role, so make sure that you have filled in your profile properly, listing all your relevant work experience, education and skills. Though there will be a lot of overlap between your LinkedIn profile and your CV, try to make it a little different so it provides some new insights into your professional experience and achievements. Your summary section allows you to go into a bit more detail and you can also attach multimedia files to your profile, to showcase some of your work.
2) Network on social media
LinkedIn and other social networks are also a great place for you to network and create some business contacts, who may be able to assist you with your career now or down the line. These could be professionals who work in your desired industry or employees of companies you are interested in working for.
A good way to find people to connect with is to join groups relevant to your industry on LinkedIn, Facebook and Google+, where you can get involved in discussions and meet like minded people.
It’s also a good idea to interact with brands and companies that you are interested in on social media, as it will get you known to them and you can show some personality.
3) Set up a website
If you want to make a bold statement, setting up a website that markets you as a job seeker is bound to get you noticed!
The website can work as a virtual CV and portfolio, so employers can build a rounded impression of you as a professional. Be sure to include all of your usual information, such as previous work experience and qualifications so they can check your credentials. You are then free to elaborate on any areas you choose to, by providing multimedia examples of your work, a video introducing yourself, etc. Get creative!
Check out Adam Pacitti’s “Employ Adam” site to seek a bit of inspiration!
4) Create a video
As I mentioned above, a video can be a great way to introduce yourself and show a bit of personality. Be warned that this is not an easy task to nail, but if done right it could give you a fast track to the top of the applicant pile!
You could do it in the style of a video CV or even as a bit of a PR stunt to catch an employers eye; but by doing something a little different and injecting a bit of humour into your video, you’re most likely to make an impression. You can then upload your video to YouTube and share away!
Here’s an example of a really creative and well made video by entrepreneur Mark Leruste.
5) Write a blog
If you fancy yourself a bit of a writer, blogging is a great way to show your interest and knowledge of an industry. By writing posts that are relevant to the field you want to work in, you prove that you are active in the industry and if you’re lucky it may catch the eye of someone hiring for a suitable role. Employers may also check these out when considering your application, so it is a good indication to them that you are being proactive in your career.
