Social media sites connect long-lost friends, family members and other acquaintances, but they may also offer an alternative avenue for finding your next job. A traditional hunt typically includes scouring job postings, both in the newspaper and online. Adding in a dose of social media increases your exposure and may help you find job openings that aren't posted elsewhere. A job found through social networking requires more than spending hours chatting online. A specific strategy for using social media helps you target your efforts for more effective results.
Step 1
Visit different social media sites to get a feel for how the work. Start with the high profile sites, such as Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn. Learn how each separate network functions, the unspoken rules and general tone of the different sites.
Step 2
Review your existing social media accounts to check for potential red flags. Consider any posts you have made that might make an employer question your suitability for a position with the company. Career Builder recommends a separate personal and business account on social media sites, keeping in mind that a potential employer could still find your personal account.
Step 3
Type using proper spelling and grammar, even if others on the social media sites type without proofreading. Make a positive impression on a potential boss by taking your time as you type and communicate through social media sites.
Step 4
Respond to job leads or inquiries immediately to match the typically fast pace of social media. Avoid hesitation in responding, which may result in losing the job to another candidate.
Step 5
Network with other industry professionals or organizations through the social media sites. Use this networking to show potential employers that you are active within the field and continuing to learn in your area of expertise.
Step 6
Announce your job search through your social media connections. Follow up on possible leads produced by your friends and followers on the sites. A large list of friends and followers makes this approach more effective because you have a larger pool of potential referrals.
Step 7
List potential companies for which you want to work, and search for them on social networking sites. Research names of hiring managers and other employees at these companies. Search for their names through social media sites to potentially make direct connections.
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