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How social media can get you a job
Did Instagram just kill the résumé?
A curated social media presence isn’t just for working creatives – a strong social game can bring your ideas, talent and experiences to life, regardless of what you study.
The job market is a jungle and traditional CV’s don’t quite cut it anymore, say Nadia Pachon and Sophie Donaldson from Beaumont People, who recently presented a personal branding masterclass at a How to Life session hosted by the University of Sydney Union (USU).
Their mission is to help students and recent graduates navigate through the vines and swinging branches to find their ideal careers. As recruitment consultants, they scroll through hundreds of résumés a day, trying to find candidates that stand out from the crowd. So, what exactly creates that point of difference? And how can you use your existing social media presence to get #hired? Nadia and Sophie share their thoughts.
Your personal brand
We all know that person who reveals a little too much of their weekend shenanigans on social media. Think about what you’ve got on your accounts: do you shiver at the thought of a potential employer seeing it? Does it authentically reflect who you are? Does it send a clear message about your passions, skills and career interests?
“Personal branding is about building an online presence that reinforces your qualifications so that when someone looks you up online, they have a clear idea of who you are, what your interests are and what you’re putting out into the world,” says Sophie.
“Social media is the perfect platform to promote the cool things you’re doing in relation to your studies, interests, passions or future career”
Public vs private
Privacy is a hot topic, and it is important to ensure your personal information is protected. However, when it comes to promoting your personal brand for the purpose of gaining the attention of potential employers, it may be worthwhile to have your account set to public.
“It certainly depends on your content. If your social media profile is predominantly photos with friends and family, or you have controversial tendencies, then I would say leave it on private” says Nadia.
“But say if you’re a photographer, you should create a public profile that exhibits your work and then connect with relevant professionals and industries. You can even have two separate accounts for your personal and public life if that’s something you’d prefer“.
What about LinkedIn?
LinkedIn is a channel specifically designed to help you connect with colleagues, like-minded professionals and even future employers. For recruiters like Sophie and Nadia, it is a huge talent database, and a platform where your experience, achievements, and career prospects are easily displayed for potential recruiters or employers to see and (hopefully) get in touch.
Nadia is a big believer in LinkedIn and advises that: “as a graduate, or student in their final year, it is definitely worthwhile to set up a LinkedIn account. You can list your degree and any experience you’ve had through internships, volunteering and part-time work. You’re also able to list your skills and have connections to endorse you to gain credibility”.
“As recruiters, we are always on the look-out for people who are interested in finding a new internship or career, so be sure to mention that in your profile description”.
Top tips from the pros
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Use your social media to show, not tell, people about your skills and experience – it’s essentially tangible evidence no resume can provide.
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Know your brand and the message you’re trying to get across, and be consistent.
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Be bold, sincere and authentic with your content. Let your social feed reflect your personality – that will be the thing that sets you apart.
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Network and make connections (it could likely lead to opportunities!). And don't be afraid to ask for advice and experience – if you don't ask, you won't get.
The Careers Centre runs heaps of workshops to get you career ready, including how to set up a LinkedIn account, resume writing and interview tips. Why wait? Get ahead now.
22 October 2018