Candidates: Be Productive Online

On average, and this is a scary prospect – people spend an average of 8 hours on Facebook…per month! 

If we’re spending so much time online, then we may as well get them ship shape and perfect for possible employers.

Social networking profiles are, after all becoming more important than before. The companies you apply for will probably be searching your personal and professional profiles on the Internet. You can take this advantage as self marketing and show your professionalism.

So how do you go about doing this with your current profiles?

Be clear and as simple as you can
Your profile should clearly tell us your specialist area, and if possible – your education and work history. Use simple and specific words to write your specialties about your field. You also have the opportunity to write shortly about your career goals and professional career in the summary part. Think what is interesting and important for your network.

Be visible and reachable
If you are seeking a new opportunity you should be reachable (so Google and the networks search option can find you) and your profile should (if you dare) be visible for others. An easy example of this is by not having a private Twitter account – open it up.

Follow People, Join Groups and Like Pages in your field
It is a great chance to meet other professionals and exchange ideas about topics and news. You can reach previous colleagues and also persons in your specialist area. In this way you are creating your own network.

Keep your profile up to date
Your online profile should be updated continuously. Edit your current situation and achievements because you never know maybe there is a dream job waiting for you. One small detail in your profile can decide whether you fit the job or not.

On LinkedIn – Request a recommendation from your previous colleagues or employers
This is a very good tool, where you can add recommendations to your profile. Ask references to make your competences visible for your network.

Stay one step ahead
Your comments on the articles, the groups you are member of, your communication style and the creation of your profile can show how creative and innovative you are. You can make others aware of your skills.

Good Luck!

Tags: candidates, Facebook, job search, LinkedIn, Social Media, Twitter