CandidatesJob Hunting AdviceUncategorised

Portraying yourself on Social Media

Tess,   19th July 2019

Portraying yourself on Social Media

In our blog “checking a candidate’s social media platform” we discuss the rules recruiters need to follow if they wish to browse your social media. Below, we’ve listed some of the rules you as a candidate should follow when using your social media & applying for jobs.

Facebook/Twitter/ Social sites

Your profile picture and cover picture:

Make sure your pictures aren’t offensive. Having a drink in your hand isn’t the end of the world, it shows you like to socialise. However, any offensive images will most likely stop the application process there and then.

Your timeline:

Check your tweets and Facebook posts, make sure any posts with offensive language are removed. We all know about a celebrity or two who have been removed from TV shows, or lost contracts due to things they have posted on their social media accounts – don’t do the same.

Check what you like:

A really easy way to let yourself down is on the pictures you like. For example, you’re applying for a Customer Service role and your CV says you’re passionate about providing the best service possible. However, you liked a “call centre problem” picture that moans about customers calling in. This isn’t going to bode well for the Customer Service role you’ve applied for. So, be careful what you’re “liking”.

Update your profile:

You don’t have to do this but it’d be great if you could include your previous education and employment in your Facebook profile. The Employer will already have this information from your CV, so it’s nothing they don’t already know but it will make your profile look a bit more professional.

Linkedin

Linkedin is the social media platform that was made for job seekers and businesses alike. You need to make the most of your Linkedin profile but it can be difficult if you don’t know where to start. We can help you with this, so do get in touch – tess@gbsolutions.co.uk / 01452 412 999.

Photo:

If you have a professionally taken photo, use this for your profile picture. You want the recruiter to take you seriously, especially if you’re applying for a more senior role.

Linkedin sections:

Make sure your “about” section is as sharp and catching as your personal profile on your CV. Some people choose to use their CV opening, or an exert from it.

In the “experience” section, include everything on your CV under employment and the same for education.

If a previous manager can write you a recommendation, then make sure you include this in the recommendation section. It’s great for a new recruiter to see what others have to say about you. It’s also good if you’re connected with them on Linkedin as the recruiter will know it is genuine feedback.

If you have a portfolio or write articles and blogs, upload the best ones to your Linkedin page so the recruiter can see your work.

Your “activity” can be seen by those who connect with you, so as before, be careful what you like and what you comment on, try and make it as relevant to your field as possible.

Some final words …

It’s easy to get carried away on social media and not understand the implications it can have on your job hunt. This isn’t to say all recruiters look at your social pages, but some might.

Make sure you read our previous blog so you understand your rights when it comes to a recruiter checking your social media platform – https://www.gbsolutions.co.uk/checking-a-candidates-social-media-platform/