Resources

If you’re new to job hunting online, or just looking to maximize your efforts, utilizing social networking tools is a technique that deserves attention. In the past, while you could search out job listings and post a resume on a few sites, there wasn’t a networking aspect available that would connect you directly with companies.

That has changed. Services such as LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook have put job seekers in a position of power – as long as they use these services correctly. Here are a few tips to get you started.
1. Posting a Resume on LinkedIn. Perhaps the most powerful social media tool for a jobseeker, LinkedIn not only allows you to post a resume, but you can also search for jobs, connect with potential employers and promote yourself across numerous channels. LinkedIn also allows job seekers to find the key decision makers within a company and can assist in finding just the right person to connect with, before sending in a resume.
2. Network on Twitter. Find and follow companies in your desired niche. Begin interacting with them and occasionally post that you are looking for a job. Link to your LinkedIn resume in your tweets. Stay connected with other job seeker’s – you can get great tips for furthering your search and it never hurts to network.
3. Using Facebook. This can be a double-edged sword for job seekers, but when used properly, it can be a powerful tool for finding a new job. Clean off your profile and make sure you don’t have any compromising pictures, or game posts on your wall. Post your resume, connect with companies you are interested in. Post updates about your job search and connect with other job seekers.

Social networking has revolutionized the way job seekers find work. If you’re not connected with these applications yet, now is a great time to start. Before you get your feet wet, spend some time looking at other resumes and follow fellow job seekers to see what they are doing. This will help you refine your own approach to find the right employer.