Many job seekers have asked me whether Facebook can be used in the job search process. Well the answer is definitely, “Yes, it can.” While I would generally suggest that a job seeker spend his or her time seeking opportunities on other networks simply due to the more social nature of Facebook, there are definitely ways that you can use Facebook in your job search.
Here are just some to consider as you go forth and pursue new career opportunities:
Help your network help you. Keep your profile updated with your current activities and contact info. Make sure to link out to your LinkedIn profile, VisualCV, Twitter account, blog and/or other online brand-building efforts so that your network can easily access them. You can even sync your blog feed with Facebook Notes and/or sync your tweets with your Facebook status. Also, let your network of friends and family know that you are seeking new opportunities through your status updates. Not only do they know you best and can speak to your strengths, skills and/or personal brand, your friends and family should also be those most interested in helping you. So, take advantage of this valuable network while you can! - Chris Perry, CareerRocketeer.com
Contract yourself out to a friend. Read through your friends' status updates as they often tell you what they are working on. If something is up your alley say, "I see you are having some issues with quickbooks," I'm an accounting professional with a little bit of time on my hands, is there something I can help you with. Best case, you get a nice short project and they love you for it and write a recommendation. Who knows, they might even pay you. Worst case, you just reminded someone that you're in the market looking for a job and what your skill sets are. - Diane K. Danielson, DowntownWomensClub.comRemember the writing on the wall. The candidate can also let family, friends, previous colleagues—even previous managers with whom they have a good relationship—know that they are gearing their Facebook profile towards potential employers, and invite comments on their profile (such as on the "wall") that address the candidate's aptitude, can-do attitude, volunteerism and even just their good nature. "We really miss you around the office, you were always so positive and cheery" or "You were one of my best employees, you can come back and work for me any time" on a Facebook profile is likely to really catch the eye of a hiring manager. A hiring manager who views such images and reads such remarks is quite likely to be positively pre-disposed towards the candidate when reviewing their application and during the hiring process. - Heather Huhman, ComeRecommended.com
Take advantage of Facebook Apps. Aside from the usual tips, such as "don't put embarrassing things on Facebook" or "be wary of friending your future boss," job seekers might want to think about adding some job search apps to their Facebook pages. There are a couple nice ones:
Testimonials (like recommendations on LinkedIn)
EasyCV (which lets you add a nice-looking resume to your profile)You don't want to miss an opportunity to have your professional information out there, and in this economy, there's no shame in announcing to the world that you're looking for work. - Rachel Kaufman MediaBistro.com
No matter how much you use Facebook in your job search, make sure it’s an asset and not a liability. While it may seem obvious, don’t forget to screen your profile and remove and/or untag any unprofessional pictures, videos, wall post or content.
Special thanks to everyone who contributed to this wealth of career search insight!
Author:Chris Perry, MBA is a Gen Y brand and marketing "generator," a career search and personal branding expert and the founder of Career Rocketeer and Launchpad.
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