Your Social Media Profile & Finding A Job

What image are you portraying on your social media platforms? What might it say about you?

You may want to think twice about uploading a silly or provocative photo on social media after knowing that 90% of employers are using social media for recruiting purposes. First impressions are an integral component of the hiring process, and if your social media photos are the first images that the recruiter sees, displaying an honest and respectable portrait of yourself could be the deciding factor of being invited for an interview. On average, it takes one-tenth of a second for someone to make an assumption of you, and roughly 6 seconds for a recruiter to view your LinkedIn profile, so take this into account when choosing a photo for your LinkedIn profile or deciding to post a picture on Instagram of when you were at a party with friends.

Eighty-nine percent (89%) of job seekers use social network sites to support their search in finding a candidate for a job position. When looking for a new job, consider these 5 tips when curating and maintaining your social media profile:

1. Keep It Consistent

Consistency is key when it comes to your social media pages. You’re not only trying to make a positive impression for your viewer (in this case, the recruiter or your prospective employer) but having a crisp and simple portrayal of yourself across all platforms shows that you are organized and thoughtful. Use some of the same photos so people are introduced by the same familiar and welcoming face.

2. Know you Priorities

What image do you want to portray to prospective employers? How do you hold yourself and is it professional? How can that be shown through your photos? These are questions to guide you in your thought process around identifying your priorities when considering your social media during your job search.

3. Be Authentic

Employers are hiring you just as much for your skillset as they are for your personality and character so don’t be afraid to be yourself. Of course, it’s important to take professionalism into account, but sharing your interests and talents will paint a holistic picture that they’re looking to see. Are you artistic? Show some of your artwork! Are you adventurous or like to travel? Post some pictures of you on a trip! Don’t try to be someone that you’re not because you will likely regret it further down the line.

4. Become a Subject Matter Expert

In addition to showing your character through appropriate photos on your chosen social media networks, share your professional experience through articles, reposts or hashtags. Sharing information about your area of expertise will help you build your brand, too. You will increase your following and build your personal brand.

5. Follow Job Search Experts and Company Job Accounts

Keeping informed will set you up for success and prepare you for that potential interview or networking event. By knowing your industry and its changing needs, you will advance your expertise to help you land that dream job.