Every career starts with the desire to succeed. To make the right decisions, you need to be well-informed, increasingly aware of your career path and be open to learning and growth. The good news is — it’s not all that hard anymore.
Now with social media platforms aiding you in your search for a suitable position, the opportunities are multifold and growing every minute.
Career portals. Really?
Every single connection you acquire on Linkedin, Glassdoor and other career portals on the web can land you the right opportunity. Yes, it is possible. And it is happening. I have seen it happen to many people in my network and as amazing as it seemed at the moment, these hirings have been successful and have built some great loyalties.
It may not happen for everyone but career portals and especially content rich sites like Linkedin definitely serve as a great way to learn the ropes from others who have been doing this a long time. It gives you the chance to engage with communities, groups and thought leaders who have a lot of learning to offer.
All this makes it possible for candidates to explore their options. Perhaps it is too early to say this but this could very well be the way people will be hiring in the future, if they are not doing it already.
That is how social media platforms have changed the dynamics of employment and recruitment. Linkedin is the most connected career portal in the world with two new users being added every second. 64% of Linkedin users are from outside US.
The professional network has grown substantially since it started out and is gaining popularity by the day among employers and employees alike.
To make the most out of your professional network, here are some tips that can generally increase your connections, build credibility and may serve as the stepping stone for getting your profile out there.
Be social. But be careful.
While it is important to keep your professional footing solid on your career portals with a well written profile, it is equally important to carry your reputation and social media presence on all platforms with integrity, professionalism and a positive attitude. We all know that most companies and employers will search you on google, check your facebook feed and will look for any other information they can find before signing you up.
So engage, yes. But tread carefully. Social media offers opportunities but the word around here spreads like fire. So delete the inappropriate images, cut out the foul language and set a professional tone for yourself. Best of luck.
Put your best foot forward
In the past, employee referral programs used to drive recruitment strategies, now Linkedin and other professional social networks have become a means of referral programs. You don’t need anyone to introduce you anymore – well, not always. Your introduction can also come through what you present on your career portal’s profile.
This is an incredible opportunity for employers and employees alike. Talent acquisition is no longer limited to a certain percentage of your reach. As an employer, you can reach out to millions of prospects. Similarly, as a candidate you can now interact, build relationships and become part of a professional network that offers learning every step of the way.
So take the time to build real relationships. Write thank you messages. When a job opening is advertised, if you are not interested, recommend someone. Endorse others for skills. Provide as much information about yourself as possible and share a professional looking photo on your profile.
Be active. Be agile. Increase connections
To get the most out of your career portal membership, get active with your connections. Keep your profile updated. A few status updates a week shows agility in a professional. Helping others out and well written recommendations reflect on your attitude when a company is hiring.
So keep these ideas afloat. Engage and be social. Happy job hunting!
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