Using Facebook to Find a Job
Posted in Online Networking
In the current economic downturn, Facebook has become a refuge for the newly unemployed. No, they're not using it for sharing photos or flirting or talking about their bumhood. They use it to market their job skills.
In the era of social media, Facebook has emerged an important tool for job hunters. In fact, more and more employers are now asking for a candidate's Facebook profile, along with a cover letter and traditional resume. Below are a few advantages and disadvantages of Facebook and some career tips.
Advantages
Facebook is an extraordinary career tool that gives you the opportunity to market yourself to potential employers, who can find you with an effortless name search on Google. Recruitment managers can come to you as soon as you send them your resume and a cover letter.
Having a Facebook profile also allows you to reconnect with your former bosses, managers, and co-workers who can refer you for new positions. In addition, it allows you to network within the site to know career tips and the latest job openings. Word-of-mouth advertising is sometimes the easiest way to land a job.
Disadvantages
There are several disadvantages, however, of using Facebook when finding a job. You may want to consider your options if had a wild college life or shared stories, pictures, and other career-damaging information. Another disadvantage is that potential recruiters can "screen" you discreetly based on your Facebook profile alone. They may look for written text or pictures that they could use against you. This practice is likely illegal and unethical.
Facebook career tips
If you want to use Facebook as a tool to find a job, then you should keep it reserved for your professional profile, resume, and career interest. Use other social networking sites if you want to upload your party photos.
Customize your profile page using Facebook's career-related applications. Screen each application selectively and select the ones that you think can be most helpful to your career. Use your Facebook profile's link to market yourself to potential employers. You should impress the recruiters by making a solid resume and creating a professional image of yourself.
