Networking 2.0

Jobhunters are regularly asked by job seekers how they can use their social media channels to find a job. Besides being interesting to follow organizations in order to keep abreast of new job openings, social media can also be the ideal platform to present yourself to prospective companies.

LINKEDIN

Personal branding.

What makes you unique and how do you express this? Try to stand out from the rest. Not easy if you are like hundreds of others in your area looking for a similar job. Try to convey clearly on your LinkedIn profile why you are suitable for a particular position. Don't be afraid to stand out, but don't overdo it. A professional photo, profile sketch of yourself and a self-written article can make all the difference! Comment on articles that are in your area of interest, but be careful what kind of comments you make! This is all reflected on your page.

Connections.

Invite anyone who could be a valuable connection. Family, (former) colleagues, friends, fellow students. Even your gym "buddy" or the group of volunteers you work with for a charity could possibly be of service to you in the future.

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FACEBOOK

Privacy settings.

Facebook is a medium used mostly privately. However, more and more companies are choosing to post job openings on their Facebook page as well. Make sure your profile is shielded from people you are not friends with at the time you are applying. Many family snapshots, vacation photos and personal updates are shared on Facebook. Employers and recruiters check a Facebook account to gauge what kind of person someone is.

TWITTER

Interactive.

Twitter is known for its lightning-fast communication. With a maximum of 140 characters, you are required to be "to the point. The short messaging makes it fun not only to send out messages but also to receive them: interaction! Organizations also enjoy communicating this way. Don't expect piles of invitations to job interviews, but a nice interactive tweet from the past between you and an organization you are applying to in the future is of course a nice entry point.