HCA West Florida Advice

Social Network Your Job Search

Grocery shopping this weekend, I ran into someone I went to high school with.  Luckily I was somewhat put together and wasn’t embarrassed by my appearance.  After exchanging updates, my old classmate said, “Are you on Facebook?  I’ll look you up.”  And now we are connected once again.

I’m new at social networking.  I’ve only been using site such as LinkedIn and Facebook for about and year or so.  Before joining I was skeptical.  I worried that my privacy would somehow be invaded.  But now, I utilize these sites on a daily basis.  They are such a great way to reconnect, stay connected and most importantly, power your network.

As previously mentioned, networking is one of the best ways to find a position.  I’m am a huge believer in networking.  Almost every position I’ve held in my career I’ve found out about through who I knew, not by applying to a job posting.  When you are looking for a job, try to let as many people know as possible.  “Six degrees of separation” made famous by the Kevin Bacon demonstration is surprisingly accurate.   You will often be surprised by the power of your network.  The most unlikely contacts are usually the very people who happen to know the person you need to speak with for that next great position.  So here follow a few tips on using your social networks in you job search:

• Make sure you are a member and fill out your profile as completely as possible.
• Try to visit the sites at least once a day.
• Update your status to inform others as to what you are looking for or working on.
• Don’t be afraid to reach out.  If someone in your network of friends works at the company you are interested in, get the inside scoop.
• Work on building you network.  The larger your network the bigger tool it can become.

Seek Out Opportunity

Social networking sites can be a great research tool as well.  Many companies have started official pages.  HCA West Florida also has a page.  Look us up on Facebook and become our fan.

How about you?  Any social networking success stories or tips you would like to share?

© 2009 Recruiting at HCA West Florida.