Leverage Social Media for Your CSR Job Hunt

The recent integration between Facebook and SimplyHired suggests that social media is expanding to create new opportunities for effective professional networking. The world of social media has taken an age old concept --networking-- and expanded it beyond traditional borders of time and geography. Through social media,we can connect with people from all over the world, at any company, across industries.

If you're a college senior, you've likely been indoctrinated into the world of networking by attending career fairs and discussing opportunities with career counselors. When I was senior, I attended alumni events and reached out to friends and friends of friends in search of advice and opportunities. I graduated in 2009 and after launching my career in Internet marketing, I've come to realize how technology can simplify and streamline the job hunt-- especially for people who are just starting out.

Beyond attending on-campus job fairs and interviews, college seniors should establish an online presence through multiple channels. Be aware of how you project yourself and leverage social media to your advantage. Here are some job hunting tips that will help you leverage social media to the best extent possible. Industry veterans might find these tips helpful too.

1) Never underestimate the power of search. In this day and age, prospective employers will run your name through a search engine. Instead of running, hiding, and deleting your Facebook profile, project yourself in the best light possible. If you're unfamiliar with the Internet industry, you'll be pleased to know that --to some extent-- you can control how personal information is listed in a Google search. Believe it or not, entire industries and companies are built upon principles of Search Engine Optimization (SEO). Here are some suggestions for how you can put your best foot forward in search engine results:

• Create an online portfolio. If you can, buy a domain name with your full name in it. These domains cost as little as $10 per year.


• Create and actively maintain a Twitter account. Try to include your name in your account. If need be, make two accounts: one for professional and one for personal use. Leave your professional Twitter account public, and update it regularly. Use your Twitter to start building a professional network. Start following people and join online communities so that people will follow you too. Follow Twitter users who post jobs in your field and location of interest, and follow people who you can really learn from. Twitter has the potential to make you look good in search results, and it's also a tool that can help make you an active social networker.


• If you're in school try to submit an article or two for your online school newspaper so that you have some public writing samples.


• Create a very basic Google Buzz account.


• Create a LinkedIn profile, even if you've never worked full time.


• Start a professional blog, but keep your personal affairs private.


• Establish a strong online presence for yourself and show only what you want.

2) Diversify your online networks. LinkedIn and Facebook are both extremely useful tools. Ultimately, your close friends and family will try to help you, so keep a lookout for where your Facebook friends are working. LinkedIn is ideal for maintaining professional contacts, reaching out to recruiters, and meeting people for the first time. If you're interested in a particular industry, join relevant groups on LinkedIn so that you can monitor industry news and job postings. Join your college's alumni group to see where people are -- frequently, college alumns will list job openings on LinkedIn discussion boards. Even if you're a college student who hasn't yet entered the workforce, you should create a LinkedIn account anyway. Connect with your classmates because one day, they will be professionals too. Just try to include something-- internships, clubs, activities, etc.-- on your profile. Companies will understand that you are a student.

3) Identify key blogs, forums, and other online communities in your field. These niche groups are a great way to connect with people and follow industry trends. If somebody writes a blog post or message that interests you, don't be afraid to reach out. Believe it or not, the Internet is a "safe" place to establish professional contacts, and people actually welcome your feedback. Great places to start include Justmeans and Mashable, if you're interested in responsible business or social media.

4) Don't be afraid to take it offline. While the Internet helps us expand our networks, it doesn't replace friendships and in-person connections. Use the Internet to get out there and meet people in your area. If you can find a free or low cost conference, attend it. Otherwise, browse through sites like MeetUp.com to find professional groups in your area.

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