Social Media for Success: 5 tips to make Twitter work for you
This week, we're launching our Social Media for Success campaign to help you capitalise on all the digital platforms available to you to further your career-starting with Twitter.
In today's digital environment, graduates need to make the most of the modern tools available to them. So how can the micro blogging and social networking site Twitter help you get your foot in the door?
Read on for our five tips to make Twitter work for you!
1. You are what you tweet
Twitter is an incredible tool because it allows you to create and develop your personal brand through what you tweet, retweet and share. It also enables you to network and build up a community of like-minded individuals.
One of the best ways to capitalise on this is in your job search is to make sure your Twitter feed highlights your interest in your chosen field. Whether you're retweeting interesting articles, or even contributing your own, Twitter is the perfect platform to demonstrate your commitment to your career as well as your awareness of the industry's developments and directions.
2. Make a list, check it twice (a day)
Twitter has been around for nearly a decade now, and most companies have at least one very active account. And if they don't, there's probably a reason.
Some of the larger companies even have a devoted Careers account-Enterprise Rent-a-Car are a great example, using @ERAC_Jobs to promote career opportunities and give information on available positions. You can use these Twitter accounts to learn about job opportunities. Try adding "careers", "graduates" or "jobs" to your search to see if the company you are interested in has one.
The best way to take advantage of these dedicated careers accounts is to create a list of your desired employers. We recommended that you not only gather company and careers accounts, but also employees from that company. Keeping all these contacts in one place will help streamline your use of Twitter.
3. #Hype
Getting on the hashtag hype can be a wonderful way to make a name for yourself. A key way to do this is to get involved in Twitter Chats-these are community-based discussion groups using a singular hashtag topic.
Within your specialised lists, look to see if employers are participating in or planning a Twitter Chat, and think about what you might be able to contribute. This can also be a brilliant way to learn more about an industry and get a feel for the way it operates.
4. Big up your Bio
Bios are a great tool for demonstrating your interests and ambitions, and they are searchable-which means you can find employers, and employers can find you.
With only 160 characters to play with, you need to be economical and focused. We suggest a direct approach. There's nothing wrong with saying that you are looking for work in Engineering, Marketing or Media, and there's equally nothing wrong with stating you absolutely love Digital Media. Just make sure you include an additional method of contact for yourself, ideally an email address or a personal website.
You can also use bios to track down and engage with employees at a company-you'd be surprised how many recruitment managers run accounts like this.
5. Take it off Twitter
The positive benefits of Twitter are many, but there is a limit to how much you can accomplish in 140 characters.
When you reach out and make industry connections, try and transition your talks over onto email or a phone call - or better yet, actually meet up! You may be surprised how many people are open to meeting up for a chat in exchange for a coffee or a pint.
Switching the dialogue to a different platform will make it much easier to take things forward. Even if the company you are following doesn't currently have a vacancy, talking to industry professionals can be an excellent way to learn about the career you're interested in, as well as an opportunity to gain first-hand advice on how to get there.
Quick Twitter Hits
- Don't be shy - Don't have a private profile. If you are worried about employers seeing something unprofessional - don't post it in the first place!
- Don't be a lurker - Twitter is for life, not just for personal branding. Don't neglect it until you need it.
- #FF - Follow Friday! Keep an eye on who is following who and who they are recommending. It's a great way to find more professionals.
- Contribute where you can - If you have an opinion on something you've read, or want to compliment someone on a fantastic article they've written, don't be afraid to say something!
6. Bonus Tip-follow us @graduatejobsUK!
Make sure you follow graduate-jobs.com for regular job updates, great articles and weekly features. Your goal is to get a job, our goal is to get you a job - it's a win-win!
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