15 Tips for Using LinkedIn and Facebook to Find a New Job

by Gabi Casin

Today, recruiters and hiring managers are increasingly using social networks to find talent. This is why it’s essential to have a professional social media presence if you’re in the market for a new job (and important to manage the privacy settings on your social accounts you don’t want recruiters and hiring managers to see). Below are some general tips for using social media to job search, along with specific job-search tips for using LinkedIn and Facebook.

General tips

1. Put your personality on display

In addition to your educational background and professional experience, hiring managers and recruiters are interested in your lifestyle, hobbies, and the media you consume—such as books and articles in your field of work or study. At best, this type of personal information can be a decisive element for recruiters when deciding between candidates. And at least, being present on a social network and showcasing your personality and what makes you unique will allow recruiters to know more about you.

2. Search for and connect with employers

Social media is a great place to discover new employers and connect with them. For example, start-ups and tech companies are usually very present on social networks. Don't hesitate to send a short message or interact with companies that interest you via their social feeds. Maybe, someday, you’ll see a job opening at one of these firms, which could lead to an interview and ultimately a great job offer.

LinkedIn tips

1. Let it be known that you’re looking for a job

First of all, if you're looking for a job, make sure to let recruiters and your network know on LinkedIn that you're open to new career opportunities. If you indicate which job offers you’re interested in and your preferred location, LinkedIn will ensure that your profile is found in search queries when recruiters are looking for suitable candidates.

2. Expand your network

Widening your networking will improve your chances of landing informational interviews and job interviews. So, make sure to connect with fellow students, colleagues, friends, clients, and partners.

4. Be active

Don’t just sit around and wait for recruiters to reach out. Instead, share photos, articles, and social posts that you think are relevant and interesting. Or publish content yourself such as a blog on a topic in your field to highlight your expertise and improve your visibility. At the very least, make sure to link to any outside portfolio or blog that you host.

Facebook tips

1. Tidy up your public posts

Even if you already know this, it’s worth repeating since it’s so important: Don’t make intimate, personal photos or political tweets public on Facebook. Recruiters can, in fact, eliminate your job application if they consider that you’re posting inappropriately. So, scrub your public profile until it’s squeaky clean.

5. Pay close attention to how a company deals with criticism

How companies deal with negative comments on Facebook says a lot about their ability to accept criticism and their culture. Is there room for open dialogue? Is criticism taken seriously? Is criticism welcome? A company’s corporate culture is clearly evident in its communication with Facebook followers. Closely looking at this communication will help you weed out employers you don't want to work for, while pointing you in the direction of what could be your dream employer.

Read all 15 tips and the complete Vault article