How do I learn to use social media productively for my job search?

[Joy H]

Re: Facebook, I'd like to get on but I don't want to expose myself to hackers or spend an hour or more a day just managing the account, clearing out spam, etc. I'm on LinkedIn but don't know how to use it well. I realize these tools could help me in my job search, especially by connecting with old friends and coworkers. Plus it would be nice to reconnect for the social aspect as well.

[Jay]

Hello, if you're looking to use social media for a job search, Linked-In is the best place for you to have a presence.

There are three key ways to leverage Linked-In:

1. Find your old coworkers and friends, and connect with them.

2. Join Groups -- search for the key terms in your area's of interest. For example, if you want a job in project management, join some of the project management groups, and watch and engage in the forum topics. Job opportunities are sometimes posted in these forums. But the biggest benefit is that you get to interact with other people who are already in the industry, and you can network with them, and an opportunity may come your way. If nothing else, you may get to add them to your contacts, and expand your circle.

3. Fill in your profile with your job experience and interests. That way, when recruiters and head hunters do key word searches to find applicants for the jobs they have available, they'll be able to find your profile. So when you write your profile, bear in mind what key words you want to be found for, and use them in your profile.

[Dexter]

Hi Joy,

It's nice to know that you're in LinkedIn already. According to Socialnomics, 80% of companies used LinkedIn as a primary tool to find employees. Aside from LinkedIn other social media sites has always been a key tool on creating career opportunities over the past years.

Here are some tips on how to use social media for job hunting:

· List the Top 5 companies you would like to work for. Focus on them first, instead of targeting hundreds of companies. Set your priorities and consider your expertise, location and the likes in listing the top 5 companies you would prefer working for.

· Use social media to do research. Learn more about what's happening with each of your targeted companies. And, have enough knowledge about the companies you would like to apply for.

· Build your Network. Know who works on your targeted companies and where and how you can get in touch with them. Follow and befriend existing employees' particularly those in human resource department.

Using Twitter, add them to a "list" which will help you organize the people you would like to converse with. Check the list everyday while you're searching for work.

Using LinkedIn, since it is mainly used for professional networking you can directly connect with professionals who may look for employees. You may also join in groups to extend your reach.

· Brand yourself. Complete your profile but it doesn't stop there! Communicate constantly (of course without being a jerk) and conduct yourself properly while engaging with the existing employees across the social web. Mind your manners!

Upload your video resume on YouTube. Make sure to make it short but describes all the necessary information about yourself and what you can contribute to a given position and why you're the best person for the job.

Hope these helps.
Goodluck!