Using Social Networking to Create Job Opportunities

Everyone has heard the old saying "It's who you know." When it comes to generating leads to job opportunities and getting your foot in the door to get that first interview, nothing could be closer to the truth. Social networking can be one of your greatest tools when looking for new employment. Let's take a look at the reasons why social networking is so important in your search, as well as some tips to improve your job finding odds.

Not everything is posted

New job boards are popping up everywhere. Many of them might even specialize in your field of expertise. It is important to realize that, as they are publicly posted, there is a larger number of people to compete with. If your resume does not measure up to the the quick glance, you may never get the chance to share with the interviewer all the other skills you bring to the table. In fact not every company uses the job boards or posts in the local paper. You may be surprised how many jobs are not actually posted anywhere at all. Sometimes a job position is going to be originally filled internally. That is of course until you dazzle them with your resume. So how in the world do you find what is not being made publicly known?

Hitting close to home

By simply letting friends and others know you are looking for a new job, you may pick up tips or news that their company is "looking for somebody". Not everyone is a social butterfly. For some the thought of networking is daunting task. There are some simple approaches that can be taken to significantly increase your chances of stumbling across the lead or information you need. Start simply talking to those you have frequent contact with. Churches are a great way to begin. Another avenue might be any clubs or organizations that you belong to. Your friends and family also likely know someone who is hiring or soon will be. So attend the PTA meetings, and the kid next door's birthday party. You never know when or where you will bump into somebody who was looking for someone just like - well you.

There is nothing like personal testimony

Having someone put in a good word for you to their manager or HR rep. will go a long ways in building a first impression even before the first email is sent or the phone call made. Personal testimony and recommendations make you stand out in the eyes of the hiring managers. Needless to say that the standing of the person representing you can either help or hinder you. Tie this in with your references! Make sure the people you are listing as references not only know you have done so, but also that they are armed with the information or message that you are wanting to project. They are after all your first impression. By helping them create the proper image of you as the possible employee their company is looking for, you are also proactively increasing your odds at an interview. Be sure to show proper appreciation to those who stick their necks out for you. If not, they may only do so once.

Recruit a recruiter

Whether you are using an online job board, or the Sunday paper, it pays to have an extra set of eyes. If used properly a recruiter or headhunter can be amazingly effective. Not only does a recruiter have access to a larger spectrum of open job opportunities, but they often have a normal open communications with many businesses in your area. They may know of a opening well before it is actually posted, and getting in first can be a huge advantage. By using their services, you increase the chance that your particular skill sets will be viewed and considered for a position. It does help to realize however that the job of the recruiter is to find a company capable workers, and not necessarily to find you particular a job. That being said, having someone with connections will only increase your own.

Practice makes perfect

By using these avenues of communcation you can quickly increase your visability. In the persuit of finding a job it only makes sense to use every means at your disposal. Don't forget to keep your social networking up once you have landed that dream job you have always wanted. There are allways bigger and better oppertunities out there. If you keep your connections alive and well you will always be in a better position to take advantage of anything that comes your way.