Using Social Media to Your Advantage

It isn’t news that social media websites have enormously impacted this generation. Nowadays, everyone has one. And if you don’t have a Facebook, Twitter or are apart of any other trending site then you’re either considered hiding under a rock or in the process of being convinced to create one. Throughout  my time as a college student, professional, and advocate for technology I have seen the social media praised, (for lack of a better word) dissed, and dismissed. We’ve all been told at one point or another by someone that we should be mindful on what we say on Twitter or make sure that our Profile Picture on Facebook isn’t too revealing. Whatever it may be, we’ve been warned on numerous occasions. But should we always have to approach social media sites with precaution? I don’t think so. I strongly believe we can use them to our advantage socially and for our professional career, if done in the right way obviously. So all you social media addicts who are ready to move on from angled bathroom pictures or updating your statuses’ like it’s your personal diary, read on.

1. Connect
   By now, most companies have a Twitter and/or Facebook. And if you’re interested in working for a particular company, it would be an ideal move to “Like” their page or start following them on Twitter. By doing this, you can find out more about more the company itself and find out of any opportunities that you can take part in.
2. Interact
   After connecting with companies, occasionally “retweet” or post appropriate questions on their Facebook page like, “I’m really interested in your latest project, can you tell me more?” This will make them receive notifications and notice you on their page. Posting frequently, but not too over the top will help them remember you and hopefully have them reach out to you.
3. A Visual Resume
   If you recently applied for a job or internship, then you have most likely been searched for on the Internet by the Human Resources Department. And even if  your profiles have been set to private, there are ways around it. So utilize your profile as a visual resume. In your “About Me” or description, modestly brag about yourself. Explain your experience and your eagerness to work in a certain industry. It would also be a good idea to put a profile picture of your face…smiling, preferably. Take pride in your profile.
4. Network
   This should probably be only used for LinkedIn, but link yourself to anyone and everyone that you may or may not know. LinkedIn connects you to people who know somebody, who knows somebody, who knows somebody. You might be linked to someone who works in a Human Resources department or CEO of a company that may be looking for someone to fill a position!

Social media doesn’t always have to be bad. Be smart about it and think of your future self, who will thank you for taking down that picture of you failing at a keg-stand.