Likeable Content Daily

By Jenna Lebel

Getting a job in any economy is no easy task. In a tough economy, that task seems nearly impossible. Job applicants are forced to seek unconventional means to break through the noise and stand out among their competition. One alternative to the traditional job search is to use social media to help you land a job. Here are five tips to get you started.

1. The majority of job openings aren’t posted online. Instead of using job search engines, seek out people. Identify the top companies in which you’d like to work. Then, connect with people that work there directly. People search engines like pipl.com and wink.com include social media profiles in their search results. Social media has broken the barriers between top level managers and job-seekers. Now, you can follow them on Facebook or Twitter to learn more about them and then reach out! 

2. Become a content producer instead of a content consumer. Start a blog that revolves around both your expertise and passions. The content you put out not only builds your credibility, but your personal brand. Instead of seeking jobs, you may find career opportunities coming directly to you. 

3. Update your Twitter account. Edit your bio to include your job pitch. Link to your LinkedIn profile or blog. Upload a professional looking photo of yourself. Take advantage of your Twitter background and use it to promote yourself.  Then, work on sharing content specific to your industry to establish yourself as an expert in the field. When the content is there, engage and build relationships with people. Once you have established yourself and built relationships, you can be more proactive and aggressive in your job search. Seek recruiters on Twitter. Several job recruiters use Twitter specifically to look for potential candidates. Let them find you!

(Also: Use the “Twitter Yellow Pages” to search for people on Twitter by company name. And follow the hashtag #TweetMyJobs)

4. LinkedIn LinkedIn LinkedIn! Just like any other search engine, LinkedIn relies on keywords. Make sure your profile is 100% complete.  Grow your network, use a distinct URL, upload a professional-looking profile picture, become an active member of groups and use applications. To round it out, get at least one recommendation from a supervisor or friend because let’s face it, reputation matters!

5. Social Media will only get you so far, however. Nothing can beat a face-to-face interview and a business card. The trick is to complement the traditional approach with social media. Add your social links to your resume and business cards– LinkedIn profile and blog.

Some people are more creative in using social media to find a job, going as far as creating Facebook and Google Ads and video resumes. We’ve outlined some basic steps, but what are some other ways to use social media to land a job? Share in the comment section below!

NOTE: theKbuzz is hiring for the Director of Buzz position. Click here for more information!