Use Twitter to find jobs

It is impossible to read the news these days without coming across a mention of Twitter; the social media site has become a major source of information, reporting information as soon as events unfold. According to Wikipedia “As of 2016, Twitter had more than 319 million monthly active users” and is “one of the ten most-visited websites.”

Twitter is often the preferred social media platform for employers to announce company news, share events and post positions. This makes it an excellent place for job seekers to find employment.

Job seekers can use Twitter to:

• Find job leads
• Meet interesting and potentially influential people
• Develop some expertise by following and learning from thought leaders in their field
• Present an impressive social media presence for recruiters/employers who view their profile

Here are some tips to get the most out of your Twitter job hunt:

Create a professional profile:

• Use a professional looking photo
• Use your actual name – make sure you’re identifiable for employers
• Write a suitable biography – your “elevator pitch”; identify your profession and mention your best assets. Set a professional and enthusiastic tone
• Consider linking to your LinkedIn, or listing your public LinkedIn URL on your Twitter account. You could also add your Twitter handle to your LinkedIn account and your resume

Start following key accounts:

• Identify and follow your target companies, individuals, professional associations, recruiters, trade publications and job boards; keep the focus professional – stay away from following personal friends
• Create a private list of target potential employers, so you can track their tweets
• Follow and watch the activities of companies – perhaps they are opening a new branch or were awarded a large contract; those could be signs of potential hiring

Interact: tweet, retweet:

• Communicate with individuals and recruiters – retweet, comment and reply to tweets. Keep it professional – avoid commenting on anything that might be a distraction or might misrepresent you.
• Share relevant articles, ask thoughtful questions. Be interesting
• Look for fellow professionals on Twitter – learn from how they conduct themselves. Take note and learn from who they follow, what they discuss and how they engage

Search for job postings:

• Use the search bar, with hashtags that link you to potential job announcements: #job #hiring
• Identify your preferred location: #Toronto
• Look for the job title: #accountant #Excel

For help setting up your Twitter account and practical hand on tips on how to use it, turn to Twitter’s own guide, as well as this excellent free online guide.