From connecting with friends to getting the most up-to-date news, social media is perhaps the decade’s savviest tool, pervading every part of our lives (for better or worse!). Here are five ways jobseekers can mix a little play into work, and leverage on this nifty platform to get a headstart in climbing that career ladder.
1. Join LinkedIn groups
We all know that LinkedIn is the job hunter’s go-to resource for anything career related. From “pimping” your resume to rubbing shoulders (virtually) with industry experts, it’s the one digital resource you need in your professional life. However, one feature that many professionals often don’t leverage on enough is LinkedIn Groups.
Screenshot of group search via LinkedIn
Groups are created for like-minded people in the industry to gather virtually to discuss topics pertinent to them – much like an online forum. Joining these groups gives you an insider look into these industries, and you may even get to quote a few tips and tricks to impress your potential hiring manager at your next job interview. Not forgetting that it’s a great place for top executives to do some talent-spotting and get a feel for your industry knowledge.
2. Get up to date news
Social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter are the savvy user’s news outlets today. Whether you’re reading about climate change or trying to keep up with the Kardashians, it offers the views of anybody who is somebody, and more. In fact, 51% of people with online access use social media as a news source, suggests a study by The Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism, with Facebook taking the top spot.
Organisations, both in the private and public sector, likewise also post the changes that go on in their offices on their social media platforms in an effort to better connect with their customers and clients. Use that to your advantage and be the first to find out about their latest developments.
3. Learn about a company’s culture
And in that same vein, gleaning the daily happenings of an office through a company’s social media page also clues you in on their culture, so potential employees can make a more informed decision in their job hunt. Or have a peek at the Facebook pages or Tweets of top executives and employees to get an idea of the office culture and vibe.
4. Get on a recruiter’s radar
With social media so ingrained in our daily lives, it is not uncommon for recruiters to post their contact details on their LinkedIn or Twitter pages. Likewise, headhunters tend to scour LinkedIn profiles for potential candidates. Hence, job hunters can also easily reach these recruiters through the social network, upping their job search game.
5. Figure out the customer satisfaction levels of a potential company
Social media pages such as Facebook also act as a watchdog for companies, and increase their transparency to their customers. From complaints to words of praise, customers take to the company’s social media pages to give their feedback. The way companies handle customer’s requests and demands also clues one in on the practices of that company, and ultimately, whether it is one worth joining.
