social media and the job search

I'm still looking for a job for next year, and my eyes were recently opened to the use of social media to conduct my search, particularly LinkedIn, the professional networking site. LinkedIn is an online system that allows you to connect with your professional and personal contacts and view their network of contacts in turn. This is useful if you are looking to meet people in a specific field or industry and have friends that may know people in that industry. While it may seem strange that what may be considered "stalking" on Facebook is actually encouraged on LinkedIn, I suggest you give it a shot! It could be a worthwhile job networking experience. As Christa Downey, Arts and Sciences Career Services adviser said to me, "You probably know a lot of people willing to help you with contacts in your desired industry, but they can't always remember everyone they know. Using LinkedIn allows you to get introduced to these contacts of contacts that you wouldn't otherwise have met."

Using the groups function in LinkedIn is also helpful - it allows you to meet people with similar interests or common backgrounds. By meeting people through groups, you may gain valuable exposure to potential employers or connections of people who are hiring.

LinkedIn is all about the connections and so is the job search! To find out more how to use LinkedIn and other social media sites to your advantage in the job search, attend Christa's upcoming event " on April 15th "Social Media and the Job Search" from 4:45PM to 5:45PM in 105 Ives Hall.