Whether it is acknowledged or not, social media networking has proven to be an important tool in today’s quest for career advancement. Social media networks are increasingly being utilized by recruiters to find and engage ideal candidates and this is where savvy employees are positioning themselves in order to be found.

 

Used effectively, social media networking provides an abundance of opportunity for career advancement, not only to internet and social-media professionals as was previously the case, but to professionals in all areas of expertise.

Over the past few years, and with the explosion of social networking, social media networking good practices, have evolved to ensure that you make the most of this process. Some of which are highlighted in this post.

1. Be professional:
No matter the network, the objective for setting up your profile must always be kept in mind. Be extremely cognizant of status updates, photos used and videos posted.

Think before you post; if you are ever in doubt then don’t post it. Also be attentive to your friends/followers/fans and their ability to tarnish your image through unsuitable wall posts and photo tags. The solution to such issues could be the adjustment of your wall and/or privacy settings accordingly or in extreme cases, unfriending or blocking persons who may not be in a similar mind state as yourself.

2. Fill in/Clean up your profile:
Ensure that your Bios, whether it be Facebook, Linkedin or other social network are filled out completely.Try to be as specific as you can so recruiters know exactly what you are interested in. Highlight your passions, likes and interests as this provides a more holistic picture and gives recruiters a better idea of whether you are a suitable fit for the position in question, don’t be afraid to show a little personality and think outside the box. The use of key words/information in your profile makes it easier to be found.

3. Be on as many Networks as possible:
Don’t concentrate all your efforts on just one network as this could limit opportunities. Networks such as LinkedIn,which is the largest professional network would be fundamental to making business connections and is definitely key in the search process. Do not, however, discount the usefulness and ability to make worthwhile connections on Facebook, Twitter , Myspace, Tagged and Plaxo and other niche networks.

4. Connect wisely:
Yes you’ve cleaned up your profile ensured that it appears professional, gone out and set up profiles in various networks. Next, do your research and be sure to connect with the right people, industry leaders and innovators. When connecting be sure to introduce yourself and explain your desire to connect with them. It doesn’t end there because a connection without forming a relationship is pretty useless. Be sure to engage in dialog and build a relationship with that individual. Approach wisely as these individuals will be receiving numerous messages, emails and requests.

5. Research, Research, Research:
Social networks can be used to research members of management teams, thus gaining insight into their personalities and likes as well as company philosophies. This provides an edge during the interview process.

6. Market yourself by writing:
Blog posts not only help build authority and gives one professional credibility while advertising your expertise but it also demonstrates a deeper degree of interest in the field which may not be evident by simply alluding to it in a social profile. If you are new to writing and trying to get your feet wet in the blogging world, research interesting blogs in your industry and offer to guest blog. Spread your wings and house your own blog when you are more confident as a writer and have the time to do so, as maintaining a full-time blog is usually a time consuming undertaking.

Be sure to keep your contacts informed when you publish articles by emailing publication links to your contact lists.

Utilizing social networks in the quest for career advancement can appear to be a risky route. Once careful thought is put into the process it can yield benefits. Have you used social networks to advance your career? Please give us some ideas on what you believe to be the most important aspects in achieving this objective.

Photo Credit David Clow