As we go through our years in college, many fun activities and events head our way. We work for four years for our degree to potentially get a job and become successfully. All of your accomplishments could potentially be pointless due to social media.
Our generation has paved the way to sharing memories through Facebook and Instagram, but are you really paying attention to what goes on your page. A study from CareerBuilder revealed that 70 percent of employers now use social media to screen job candidates before hiring them, up from 60 percent a year ago and 11 percent in 2006.
Before you think about doing a clean sweep of your social media, how do you think it would look to an employer that you have had absolutely "no social media accounts"? Employers are not looking for a reason not to hire you but more so to hire you! Here is how to be a polished recruit to the employee scene.
1. Keep yourself up to date.
Many times employers are simply trying to find your credentials. Keep your LinkedIn and even your Facebook as updated as possible with achievements. You never know who is watching!
2. Try to stay level-headed.
It is so easy at time to want to immediately type up your opinions on Twitter and Facebook but there is a much more professional route. Instead, try to share "fact checked" articles that are relevant to your industry. Not only does this show your opinion but also you are interested in your trade. Also, don't be afraid to share articles outside of your field because being well rounded is always impressive! This should go without being said but, stay away from discriminatory comments related to race, gender, or religion.
3. Keep a professional headshot on hand.
Usually, college career centers offer free headshots multiple times a year or you can even utilize a friend's camera. Closer to job interviews upload your headshot for a fresh new look for your pages!
4. Make sure you're picture perfect.
Employers will not offer a job to a candidate because of provocative or inappropriate photos. College is full social events and the time you turn twenty one but evidence of drinking and/or drug use is a major red flag for employers.
5. Use social media to your advantage.
Of course there sites that are strictly for job searching but many companies post job openings through Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Google yourself! Sounds simple but this is where an employer will start. Build your own career-focused platform by creating a new social media page via Twitter or Facebook that is specifically geared towards your aspirations, passions, and your employment.
