Let’s Get Social

You created the killer resume, you applied to the perfect job. You’ll definitely get it, right? You’re, like, super qualified – checking off every box in the “ideal candidate” category like a boss. Bigger than a boss. They’ll take one look at your resume and experience and decide, “that’s it, you’ll be the boss’ boss.” They will likely just give you the company.

 

And then, a week goes by.

 

…and a week after that.

 

You check the posting and it is gone. You call the company and the position has been filled. What gives? Not even an interview? You were perfect. So, you do what we all do: You mull, you fixate, and you wonder. You absolutely go over that resume, top to bottom, to see if you left out a space. There’s nothing, so you move on still totally puzzled.

 

One day, however, you get an email or see a Facebook post from a friend about the importance of your social media imprint when applying to jobs. Do you even have a LinkedIn? You know, besides that joke one you made in college that has you listed in the funny hat as CEO of Party Tiiii —oh no. Yep. That’s right. You lost your dream job to a dumb joke. You can’t save the dream job, but how could you improve your odds, moving forward?

 

Use a Professional Photo

 

No selfies, no ridiculous props, no 20 year-old wedding photos that you’ve cropped other people out of. Get a professional headshot done in a business professional outfit. In a crunch or don’t have the funds for a pro? Dress up, find some great lighting and ask a friend to help you out – phone cameras are great options.

 

Banners

 

LinkedIn has a banner photo option, as well. Did you know that profile pages with graphics are 11x more likely to be viewed? Not super savvy? Canva has a free option where you can create your own. Remember – keep it professional. When in doubt, check out peers and other industry leaders’ profiles and emulate their style.

 

Relevant Professional Information

 

This one seems obvious, but make sure you’re constantly updating your profile to reflect your most recent professional awards and accolades. Have you taken any new classes lately or received updated certifications? Throw them on there!

 

Beware Buzzwords

 

The occasional buzzword is ok, but beware the use of ALL buzzwords ALL the time. Make it conversational – be someone who you’d like to speak with, were you hiring for your position.

 

And, Finally, Network

 

What’s LinkedIn and other social networking sites if not for…networking? Add people within your industry – you don’t have to be best friends – just add them. Ask professional contacts for recommendations and endorsements, give recommendations and endorsements. Share items on your feed, write articles and thought pieces, share other materials you’ve previously written through Publications. Share the best, most professional version of yourself. It’s your time to shine!

 

Don’t lose your dream job to either unprofessionalism or a total lack of an online presence. You have what it takes – you just have to make sure that everyone else knows it, too. Utilize the free tools you have on hand to position yourself as a star employee and totally wow almost any hiring manager.