According to statistics, the average American spends about 1.5 hours on social media daily. Recently we discussed how habits, to a very large extent, determine our success or lack thereof. While social media usually becomes a habit that influences your life negatively, there are many benefits to be gleaned, especially with your career.
Over 50% of future employers will take a look at your social media before hiring. Use this to your advantage and cultivate on online presence within your social media outlets that showcases your skills, talents, and potential to possible employers. Here are 5 tips:
- Utilize LinkedIn Effectively – LinkedIn was specifically developed for job networking. Upload your resume and cultivate your list of skills. Consider publishing an article to showcase your knowledge and ideas. If you do this well, social media will provide a boost to your career.
- Keep your posts positive and appropriate – According to Career Builder statistics, the top two reasons applicants are denied based on social media use includes: sharing inappropriate information or pictures, and negatively speaking about a previous employer or fellow employees. Follow the age-old rule of “if you can’t say something nice, refrain from saying anything.”
- Research future employers on social media – If you are seeking a position within an organization, then look them up on social media. Get to know their mission and goals. If you end up getting an interview, this background knowledge shows preparation and initiative.
- Follow those who inspire and improve – Choose who you follow wisely. Follow people and organizations who will help improve and encourage your development.
- Leverage social media in your job search – If you are currently seeking a job, use social media. Many companies will post about different job openings and fairs. Click here to read an excellent article on leveraging social media in your job hunt.
These are just a few simple ways to utilize social media to develop personally and professionally. As with all collections of mass information, it can be easy to become distracted from your overall vision of success; however, we must be intent to use our resources toward our professional and corporate advantage for ultimate success.
