Job Search and Networking

Facebook

With more than 1 billion members, Facebook is the largest social network worldwide. As more employers begin to use social media to screen and recruit applicants, developing a professional Facebook profile has become an essential part of any job search. Facebook also offers several ways to reach out to your network and connect with different employers.

Review the techniques below to learn how to use Facebook effectively when searching for a job:

• Choose your privacy settings
  Make sure your profile is publicly available for employers to view, but limit access to your personal photos and status updates. With the introduction of Facebook's Timeline, you also have the option to limit access to posts you've made in the past. Visit our Facebook tutorial to learn how to choose your Basic Privacy Settings.
  
  Modifying past Facebook activity
• Create a professional profile
  Your Facebook profile is the first thing a potential employer will see on Facebook. Make sure to use a professional profile picture (a simple headshot is usually best), and include details about your work and education history. While your profile should make a professional impression, employers will also visit your Facebook profile to get a sense of your personality—it's all about sharing the right balance of personal and professional information. Try including a meaningful cover photo to help express your personality.
  A professional Facebook profile
• Use your network
  If you're looking for a new position, don't be afraid to talk about your search in a status update—you never know who might have information about a recent opening. The more specific you can be about what you want, the greater the chance that your contacts will be able to help. At the same time, be careful not to overwhelm your networks with constant updates about your job search. A few carefully composed posts will probably be more effective than a daily summary.
  Posting a job status update
• Like potential employers
  Try connecting with different companies by liking them on Facebook. You'll be able to keep up with the latest trends, gain insight into the workplace culture of different employers, and even see posts about current job openings. Establishing a relationship with an employer can give you a distinct advantage over other job seekers. Don't be afraid to comment on a post or send a message to get the conversation started.
  Liking a company page on Facebook
• Use Facebook apps
  Rather than use other sites for professional networking, more people are starting to use Facebook apps such as BranchOut and BeKnown, which are a great way to separate your personal and professional networks on Facebook. These apps harness the power of your existing Facebook friends to help you connect with other job seekers and potential employers. You'll also be able to create an online resume, ask for recommendations, and even search for job postings.
  The BranchOut app on Facebook

If you are currently employed, be careful not to advertise your job search too openly on Facebook. Try sending private messages to friends or sending an update to a Facebook group rather than post a public status update.