The Importance of Social Media in Job Search

For centuries, people have been taking advantages of the term "networking" to land a job. However did you know that the power of networking can be increased by ten folds? Social media websites have changed peoples views on job hunts. Recently, more people have become aware of the potential of these sites to increase the chances of a job seeker to land a job. But as a modern man, have you ever notice the importance of social media networking on your job search?

Due to the emergence of the Internet, job hunting has been completely revolutionized. In fact, it is quite unacceptable to ignore this emerging trend. As a job seeker, you should be flexible and be creative as much as you can. To gain an edge over your competitors, you must take advantages of social media sites before your competitors do. However, what are social networking sites and how do they work?

Social networking sites are websites that use social networking tools to attract online users. When you say social networking, it refers to the interaction or communication between people within specific groups such as friends, family, workmates and classmates. Hence, in a social media site, people share information to each other either in personal or professional level, or both. With this definition alone, Twitter itself is not proclaiming to be a social networking site. But still, the site is highly recommended for building up your network. So, how can you effectively benefit from these sites?

• Personal Branding - honestly, these sites strengthen your personal brand. You might know by now that personal branding is very important in a job hunt. However, it is not a new phenomenon. From the day you are born, you are already branding and marketing yourself. As a social being, it is natural to live your life based on other people's view on you. Even if you do not admit it, you are living your life to the expectation of others.

• Profile Pitching - technically speaking, your profile on your social media accounts is your elevator pitch. It should be able to make a lasting impression of you in only ten seconds. Your opportunity on social media lies in you. What you represent will determine what opportunity will open up for you.

• Update Your Profile Picture - as they say, photos speak a thousand words. You do not want your potential employer to see your weird side. To capture people's attention more, upload a photo with you smiling in it. Smile using your eyes and your lips. This is considered a true smile. Also, ensure that the photo is up to date. As you may have notice, your profiles in your social media accounts act the same way as your CV.

• Build a Positive Image - in social media sites, you can easily slip and ruin your reputation. The articles you submitted, the comments you posted and the pictures you uploaded will define who you are. They will influence the image you want to emit either in a positive on negative way. Hence, start your messages with a statement that will help in defining who you are. If you can, include your passions and ambitions in them.

Basically, you can utilize social media websites such Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn as your online business cards. This way you can widen your online presence.

Landon Long is the founder of InterviewMastermind.com. You can download his FREE "Resume Rebel" Video Course to learn how to write a resume and stand out in a slow economy.

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