Social networks used right

Job seeking online has become more than posting resumes and searching job boards these days. To find a job applicants are realizing the power of social networking and the sites that serve that purpose. Sites such as LinkedIn and Facebook have become well known as gathering points for both job seekers and recruiters alike.

Remember Who Uses Social Networking

When you decide to become part of a social networking site remember who uses these sites. While it may be fun to put weekend party shots on your profile, employers seeking to fill jobs may reconsider your qualifications if you appear unprofessional in the public eye.

Remember the Reason You Came

Remember the reason you came on the social networking sites, to find a job. Job seeking today is about marketing and branding your abilities and experience to potential employers. Your main goal in using a social networking site should be to build contacts which could help you find a job. While you could make friends along the way, the most helpful contacts you make will not care about your weekend life.

How to Find a Job

If you want to find a job you need to make contacts and connections. Here are a few simple tips which may help:

• Join groups - the best way to meet people in your field of interest is to join as many groups as you feel are worthwhile; then be active in the group
• Ask for referrals - no one will know you are looking if you do not communicate
• Search the 'Jobs' section - every social networking site has an employment section; either look for work there or post a 'work wanted' ad
• Make contacts - use the contacts you already have; search their networks and ask for introductions

How to Have a Job Find You

Half of the activity of social networking is passive marketing. This means your profile must be used as a billboard of your personality, experience and abilities. Here are a few tips to make this effective:

• Create a Profile - you need the most detailed profile you can create; include both current and past employment, education, certifications, industry experience, web sites and any activities related to your chosen field
• Use Professional Photos - use a professional head shot for your profile; think of the ads you see for insurance agents and lawyers
• Keywords and Skills - include all relevant keywords and skills in your profile so employers and recruiters can find you
• Your Resume - most social networking sites have a place where you can post your resume or a link to an online resume, by all means do this; if you have a video resume post that as well

Extra Tips

Here are a few extra tips to get the most use out of social networking sites when you are seeking out a job.

• Customize your URL - this makes the link to your profile uniquely yours; post this link on any websites and promote it as much as possible
• Link to blogs - keep a journal of your efforts to find a job; link your profile and your resume to the blog
• Write what you know - writing industry specific topics to a blog or website is a good way to become an expert in your field, and thereby sought after; link your profile to these articles as well.
• People with 20 or more connections are more likely to be approached for job openings

Using social networking sites for job seeking can be a viable option if done right. Finding a job takes a business and professional attitude, as well as marketing of your experience and skills. Networking online is no different. Social networking when done property can provide positive results over time.