Back in the day applying for a job was much simpler you contacted the company and emailed in your details or simply applied to an advert. The employer would not have the opportunity to research you to find out other information via the web.

In today’s world social media has become an essential aspect of everyday life. People use different platforms like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, and others to connect with friends and family, share ideas, and photos, and find the latest news and happenings.

Social media can now influence decision-makers to employ or not to employ you? In this blog, we are going to explore how social media can help or hurt your job hunt and hinder your efforts in this current digital age.

1. LinkedIn Is Your Professional Account
LinkedIn is a professional social network and one of the most used platforms. LinkedIn's features allow job seekers to expand their professional network, create a career profile, research companies, and see job opportunities. Avoid posting social comments not relevant to the business world on LinkedIn. Be aware that your LinkedIn social media accounts must reflect professional content. Avoid engaging in arguments expressing strong opinions and posting inappropriate content that may harm your chances of getting a job.

2. Branding on Personal Social Media Accounts
Employers will undoubtedly check social media profiles before considering candidates for a position, including personal social media accounts. This is why personal branding is essential when job hunting in the modern world.
It is important to consider personal pages on various platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter as branding. It informs employers of work ethic, hobbies, and activities, showcasing expertise in various fields. Additionally, job seekers can share industry-related news and update their connections on their accomplishments to allow employers to know what they are capable of.

3. Research
Some employers are now doing social media screening prior to employment when a candidate is applying for a job. It involves researching a prospect’s social media profiles and their activity, including what they post, like, and comment on. Some of the platforms they are likely to check are LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and WhatsApp.

Nowadays your personal social media profiles can potentially affect your professional life. You might think that your personal e.g. Facebook social media profile is your personal life. However, this means it is a great place to view a person’s personality and get a glimpse of the real you that is not revealed in a CV/resume.

It is important to consider what type of photos your post and the comments that you make. Googling your name to find out about you is a common research task as every company wants the right fit. Check your photos, are they creating the right impression of you?

In conclusion, social media is no longer an option for job seekers but a requirement when navigating the modern job search market. Employers and job seekers are influenced by social media's power, the relationships formed, the content created, and the sharing of information used to boost the job search. By building a professional presence, and carefully managing your online reputation, it is possible to leverage social media and promote you and your capabilities, helping you to succeed in your job search.

Stay tuned, next week we will have a blog on tips for passing social media screenings

Arcadia Recruitment are specialist in Architecture, Design and Planning in Brisbane if you would like help with finding your new role, please feel free to get in touch for a confidential discussion.

Caroline Sanders – Director of Arcadia Recruitment