Jobvite’s 2019 Job Seeker Nation Survey reports that 50% of respondents heard about jobs from friends, 37% say they also learn about open positions from professional networks, and 35% found out about jobs from social media. According to Monster.com, 80% of employers are using social media as a recruitment tool. Jobvite’s 2020 Recruiter Nation Survey reports that social media channels most used for recruiting are LinkedIn (72%), Facebook (60%), Twitter (38%), Instagram (37%), Glassdoor (36%), and YouTube (27%). One reason that employers tap social media is to court passive candidates (those not actively seeking employment). That means that even if you’re not looking for a new job right this second, it makes sense to use these top social and professional networking sites to enhance your career.
Social Networking Sites for Job Seekers
With about 800 million current users, LinkedIn is a top spot for people looking for work. However, many users don’t take the necessary steps to maximize their chances, including optimizing their profile, creating their network, joining groups, incorporating work samples, and accumulating recommendations and endorsements. Make sure that you reach out to first-, second-, and third-degree connections for information, advice, and introductions to hiring managers. LinkedIn is also a great resource for accessing job postings. The search results include a listing of jobs that correspond to your interests and also a list of individuals in your network who might be able to refer you to relevant jobs. Alumni from your college who are working at the employers’ advertising jobs will also be noted on your results list.
Many employers will placejob advertisements on Facebook. You can find these opportunities by searching for “Jobs on Facebook” in the search window on the site. However, the greatest value of Facebook is the opportunity to solicit the assistance of your contacts with your job search. Ask if your contacts are aware of any jobs related to your interests, and also request that your friends provide referrals to any people whom they know in your field for advice and information relevant to your job transition. Be careful how you proceed if you are currently employed and have Facebook contacts who might report your activity to your employer.
Instagram is a good way to establish your personal brand while demonstrating your social media skills and enhancing your overall digital presence. It’s also a smart way to glean information and insights about a company where you might want to work. Did an employee post a picture of “massage Mondays,” and you’re a corporate masseuse? Does a company showcase a “Fajita Fridays” special, and you’re a Mexican chef? Instagram also provides a vehicle for you to post visual representations related to your professional or academic projects.
Pinterest reports millions of active monthly users. The site will be most useful for creative types like interior decorators, artists, and graphic designers who can post visual representations of their work.
TikTok
You can find plenty of job search advice on TikTok using hashtags such as #jobsearch and #careertok.Job seekers can also use TikTok as an application tool and for sharing video resumes.
Active Twitter users can develop and promote their professional brand by posting information of interest to individuals in their field. One benefit of Twitter is the free-flowing communication that allows you to talk directly to recruiters and hiring managers without the need to submit a resume first. Search for #recruiters and other keywords related to your industry. However, while Twitter is an excellent networking tool, you need to support your efforts with a blog or LinkedIn profile. No one will hire you simply based on a Twitter profile though. To start, they’ll need a link (in your bio) providing them with more information about you.
YouTube
YouTube is an excellent vehicle for incorporating video samples of your work, as well as evidence of your communication skills or personality into your job search. Of course, musicians, actors, teachers, consultants, and trainers have used the site for years to promote their skills. Many other job seekers can benefit from creating a video profile that showcases their persona and demonstrates their career-related skills. Examples might include an “elevator pitch” summarizing your interests and assets targeted towards a career field of interest or a brief show-and-tell regarding a successful academic or work project. YouTube boasts a user base of billions of individuals. Jobseekers can post videos on YouTube to attract the attention of employers or link YouTube videos to their job search communications or other social media sites like LinkedIn or Facebook.
