We’re living in a digital world and when it comes to job hunting and networking, this can be both a blessing and a curse. We can find jobs more easily with the help of websites like Monster and Indeed. We’re able to reconnect with former colleagues who we’ve lost touch with. We can have a vast network right at our fingertips! The flip side of this is that all of our information and public correspondence can be up for scrutiny, so we always have to put our best face forward. There are also so many new venues to explore, that it can be difficult learning how to navigate all of these new channels.
Social media channels like Twitter, Facebook, and even Pinterest can be valuable tools for job seekers and individuals looking to network. Below are some of the top social media sites for networking.
[accordion]
[acc_item title=”LinkedIn”]The social network for professional networking is an obvious choice for this list. LinkedIn allows you to find and connect with professional contacts, read the latest in industry news and even apply for jobs! It’s also fantastic for students who are beginning to build their professional network.[/acc_item]
[acc_item title=”Twitter”]Twitter can be a great way to share trade news articles and give up-to-the-minute opinions about industry ideas. It is also a casual and easy way to reach out to companies and influential people you’re interested in developing a rapport with.[/acc_item]
[acc_item title=”Facebook”]Although Facebook is known to be a personal social network composed mostly of friends and family, it is also a great networking space. This site is perfect for networking because of the ability to create and join groups in a more casual environment than LinkedIn. Just remember that your photos and posts may be out in the open, so keep your profile work-appropriate too.[/acc_item]
[acc_item title=”Pinterest”]At first glance, Pinterest may seem an unlikely channel to appear in this article, but it can serve as a really powerful tool! Pinterest can be used to gather great industry resources, highlight your portfolio, and show off your personality. It’s especially helpful for creatives looking to showcase their work.[/acc_item]
[acc_item title=”Alternative Avenues”]In addition to the channels featured above, there are other sites that make connecting easy, and many are catered to a certain field or profession. For example, Behance is a great source for creatives to share their portfolios and look for jobs. Class websites like Skillshare and Lynda and Coursera are perfect for professionals who are learning new skills![/acc_item]
[/accordion]
Despite the best intentions of these digital routes, sometimes it best to create that connection in person. If you’re on the hunt for a job or just want to connect with new faces, job fairs are a great way to get introduced to new companies and new people! NorthEast Talent Solutions holds their own job fairs, making it easy to connect with recruiters and get your career on the fast track to success!
