ALT-1 Pros and Cons of using Social Media for Job Hunting
Today, having a visible presence on social networking websites has become as common as a morning cup of java. Everyone is usingsocial media, and everyone is using it for different reasons. However, it is the popular social familiarity with this tool that makes it the best, and the worst, tool in a job search.Pros1. Networking benefits. In business, it is both what you know and who you know that will help land you your dream job. Social media allows you tonetworkwith potential employers and network before an interview is even an option, allowing your personality to shine and giving you the best chance to make a top-notch first impression.2. Hearing about new jobs first. Social media opens doors with employers and puts you in the forefront of their minds when new openings come down the line. Networking with employers puts you in a position to hear about these positions –and apply for them - before they become public knowledge.3. More exposure. Your online profiles, resumes and information are now more available to employers than ever before. Even if you don’t land your dream job with your dream company, social media gives you the chance to network for advocates who will recommend you - and your stellar skill set - to colleagues on the web; employers who may, otherwise, never have been on your radar, and vice versa.Cons1. Meshing personal and professional. Social media can mesh the lines between personal and professional lives, if you aren’t careful. Employers have the opportunity to see your status updates, posted links and commentary. This can be a good or a bad thing. Being overly personal, overly familiar or checking in to your local watering hole can jeopardize your chances for a job, if an employer perceives your behavior as negative.2. What your profile says about you. Your online profiles often reflect your “likes”, habits, favorite music and religious preferences. Despite the fact that discrimination is against the law, these factors can work against you in a job search, depending on the employer’s point of view.3. Lack of privacy. All of a sudden, social networking can feel like a chore. You may even begin to feel as if you can’t be “yourself” anymore when you log on.The best way to get all of the pros of social networking in your job search and eliminate the cons is to have different social media profiles for different things. For instance, if you have a Facebook profile for personal use, create a fan page for businesses. Or, separate your Facebook altogether and used LinkedIn for business. However, if you allow employers to become part of your personal network, all bets are off. Remember, your social media profiles are an extension of you, make yours the best extension it can possibly be.
