How did we exist without social media? It is consuming copious amounts of our time and is now embraced by all generations including mine, the Baby Boomers. In the last few years social media has evolved and its presence has become stronger. It is very important to utilize various platforms in order to boost your ability to be found by search engines employed by career decision makers. Here are six tips to help you maximize your professionalism and impact.
1. Connect Purposefully
Only connect with a predetermined audience where you can bring value to them and they can bring value to you. Connections can be made within your industry, or with others who want to do business with you, or in your targeted list of employers where you would like to work. Check your LinkedIn profile daily to see who has viewed it and consider adding these as contacts.
2. Personal Connection
Always send a personalized message that includes information on the value you can bring to potential connections, highlighting your business and how you can help them. The acceptance rate is significantly increased with personal and courteous connection requests.
3. Honesty
Be open and be expressive when writing about who you are and what you can bring and what you can do for others. Every word online is public and reflects your reputation.
4. Manners
Be polite. Be considerate and avoid controversy, keeping within your personal brand. The raucous jokes and funny pictures can be saved for close friends. So too, can political and religious comments.
5. Consistency
Post and share as frequently as you can. If in career transition, you should be posting daily. If gainfully employed, once a week or every 10 days is fine. Create and maintain a positive presence to build interest, trust and recognition.
6. Diversify Your Presence
Utilize a mix of your personal content with content generated by others. Sharing is to be applauded. But keep it specific, upbeat and professional to strengthen your brand awareness and your expertise.
LinkedIn is the prime platform for sharing content. However, Facebook is also becoming a major resource used by HR professionals and executive recruiters in finding talent. Have fun with social media. You will learn and others will learn from you.
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