Why Social Media Must Be Part of Your Job Search Strategy

There is a lot of static out there about Social Media and its place in the job search process.  Many think it is a bit of a time drain with little return on investment.  And, like anything else, without a “plan” it can be just that.  But, properly implemented, it can be a more powerful catalyst to getting your job search engine off and running than just about any other single tool out there.  This is largely because it embodies a collection of qualities that, combined, can streamline your search efforts while putting the maximum amount of pressure on a pinpoint area – your target position:

Visibility – These mediums allow you access to an unlimited amount of professionals within your targeted audience.  What’s more, Social Media sites by definition allow for and promote the organization of niche “groups” which make finding your audience that much easier.  LinkedIn is a prime example of this, but Facebook and YouTube as well.

Transparency – This is a mantra to your success in Social Media environments.  Perry Belcher equates it to going to a party.  Would you set up a table and starting pitching your product (i.e. “Here I am, looking for a job”) or begin by connecting on common ground?  This is particularly true on Twitter – one of the more transparent tools out there.  It is the first step in the process of “Know, Like, Trust,” which we all go through in determining what we are going to buy.  Or, in this case, who they are going to hire.

“Give to Get” – Coupled with transparency, it is the second key to success in Social Media.  Help others to not only get them to help you but, of equal importance, discover who will help you.  And, by way of this assistance, you get a third party endorsement or recommendation.  You can start doing it by simply asking others, “How can I help you?”

Nobodies are the New Somebodies – Borrowed from Guy Kawasaki, in the simplest of terms you don’t know who can help you nor do you know who knows who.  Connecting with the big wigs in your industry through Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn can be fun, but it’s that avid networker who you have never met or heard of who is your better bet.

The Quality is in the Quantity - This is how you get to the “Nobody Somebodies.”  By using tools like Opennetworker, you can build a network of likeminded, “give to get” individuals rapidly on a number of platforms (LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, etc.).  By having a large number of connections, you have more choices from which to drill down and develop deeper, more meaningful connections.  Think of it like filling your own networking event: pack the hall with as many folks as possible and then work the room to see who can help you (and, of course, who you can help). 

It is clear that Social Media isn’t the fad some first claimed it to be.  It is almost equally as pervasive off-line as it is on-line.  By incorporating it on the front end of your job search efforts to “fill the funnel,”   you will not only more effectively tie in with the opportunities you seek but also uncover that elusive “hidden job market.”

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