Social Networking Tip for Job Seekers

There has been many articles about using social networks while job searching. However, unless you are familiar with the sites, and have a plan , social networking can be confusing. Furthermore, you can actual do damage to your search.

Therefore, STOP BEFORE YOU enter that site!


Get Organized before Going Online. Ask the who, what, where, when and how.
What are you going to share, who are you going to share it with, how are you going display or communicate your true self on the site, or how are you going to contribute to the site, where is access most likely to be conducted, When will you update, or visit the site? Think about your personal brand, and also the brand of others you may be connected too.

Know what the site is intended for and How you can use it.
First step read and understand the agreement.
Do research on the site. I suggest actually reading the home page and clicking on the question or customer service section.
Is this site primarily for sales, can you link it to your company site, or past company sites?
Do external research on how the site operates, how it discloses or secures information. I suggest your local library for free tutorials, and workbooks with screen shots.
i.e., Linkedin is great for business connections, and professional interests if you use it well. However, facebook can be just as effective in a job search if you are already connected to people with similar interests.
Know yourself, and communicate that self in the way that best fits your purpose.

Ask Questions:
Does the site have free training? Are there resources that can walk you through a demo?
Does it provide links to actual company employees?
Can you protect your information and if yes, how do they secure that information?
Does it retain information other than what you would give out on a resume?
Can everyone access it, including former employers?
Can you get data and keep that data for your job search records? i.e., personal contact of a recruiter and company?

Next Step only after all others:

Join a social network or more than one only when you are comfortable. Find others that know how to use it and tap them for tutorials. Don't click away without knowing what you are doing.

Link your sites for automatic updates, only if you have a reason for doing so. If one site is your personal and the other professional--keep it that way.