Using Social Media to Boost Your Career | IT Professionals
Posted March 18th, 2013
As an IT professional, you are most likely very plugged in to social media, using it for networking and other information.
People are always cautioned about what they put on social media sites, because it is open to public scrutiny, including scrutiny by potential employers trying to learn more about a person’s background.
But social media also can open up new opportunities for career development, opportunities you may want to take advantage of to aid you in your job hunt, says business analyst Amy Gallo. According to social media analysts, you can use social media to improve your reputation in your field and to establish yourself as someone experienced and knowledgeable in a certain area.
Because of social media, the traditional paths to demonstrate expertise – titles, degrees, years of work, credentials — are no longer the only ones. You can now show your know how in a more direct way, and get noticed more easily. But to make the most of social media, you have to be clear about what you want to accomplish with it and you have to take the initiative. To make the most of it for your career, experts say, you need to use it for more than just personal communication.
You can use social media to write about or comment on a certain business topic or area in which you may be interested. You can contribute to discussions about business issues in which you are knowledgeable. Anyone can do it – there’s no need for any kind of special credentials. If you argue your points well, you can even develop a following online, and your posts will create a ripple effect. Doing this shows that you are “in the game,” says social media consultant Dorie Clark.
Before you get started, however, you need to think about the things you’re going to be writing about, because they then will become associated with your name. What do you want to be known for?
Then you have to create a name for yourself. Social media analysts suggest setting up a profile on LinkedIn, and make sure it is a complete one, that is, fill out all the fields. Then, set up links to other social media sites where you post. Also, set up a Twitter account.
Finally (and this may be the most challenging part), have something interesting to say. You want to post content and opinions that people will find interesting enough to share with others. And this way you can develop a following. You should post at least once a day.
If you’re a resident of the San Francisco Bay Area and are looking for work in the IT sector, send your resume to Bayside Solutions. We look forward to hearing from you.
