Social Networking:

What will potential employees discover if they search for your business online? What will your boss see if she looks for your name on a social networking site? Do you know what a potential employer will find if they Google you? Social networking makes interpersonal connections, networking and personal information much more accessible. As social networking use continues to grow in the workplace, so does the impact it can have on your professional image.

What Are the Benefits of Social Networks?

Social networking is the process of building online communities through the interactions of those on the Internet. Participation on social networking Web sites allows individuals to keep in touch, network with new contacts, and stay up-to-date on industry trends and news. Many social networks enable you to join virtual professional groups, as well as discover who in your network has recently switched jobs, been promoted or is looking for a new position.

Professional social networking sites, such as LinkedIn, provide opportunities for both employers and employees to “see and be seen,” as well as to connect with others in their fields.

Research where professionals in your industry have profiles and create profiles on those sites. Even if you do not regularly make profile updates, this will ensure your name appears in search results. You don’t want to be overlooked.

Here are a few tips to make sure your online persona portrays you in a positive light, no matter which role you play in the hiring process.

Profile Information

Typically, social networking sites allow you to upload photos and personal information to your profile. Although social networks are often used for both personal and professional purposes, be conscious of who has access to your profile.

Do use your discretion when deciding what details to share. If you are a job applicant, recognize that some employers may research potential hires via social networking tools before extending an offer. Conversely, if you are a hiring manager, consider what your online profile says to potential employees.

Do post a professional headshot on networking sites that are primarily for professional use (LinkedIn, Spoke, etc.). Posting photos on your profile enables individuals to associate a face with a name; but remember that a picture can speak volumes. What do you want it to say about you or your company?

Do adjust your privacy settings. Be conscious of default settings and customize your privacy levels accordingly. You can control who is able to view your information, as well as what sections of your profile are public.

Status Updates

Several social networks ask you to update your “status.” This is a short response to prompted questions such as “What are you doing?” and is shared with the people who have access to your profile.

Do stand out as a valuable industry resource to those who read your updates. If you are working on a notable project at work, mention it in your posts. Additionally, employers can use updates to keep industry professionals aware of company news and accomplishments.

Do be positive. Under no circumstances should you write updates that reflect negatively on your company or your co-workers. You do not know who may see these posts.

Don’t use all caps. No matter how badly you want to make a point, all caps is the online equivalent of shouting.

Job Boards

Most professional social networking sites have job posting boards, allowing employers to seek out candidates who also have profiles on that site. This creates an opportunity for recruiters to connect a resume with an actual online profile.

Don’t take advantage of the accessibility of recruiters through online networks. If you are job searching, randomly “friending” recruiters or excessively messaging human resources managers will only work against you.

Do politely state your interest in a position and ask for application details. It is also appropriate to request to be kept in mind for future positions.

Professional Networking Groups

Those with similar interests and job functions are able to form groups on many social networking sites. These online groups serve as forums for members to exchange ideas and share insight on various topics and trends.

Do join professional groups. Share expertise and insight by frequenting the discussion boards and posting and answering questions.

Don’t be closed-minded. Be respectful of other opinions within your group. Furthermore, if you join a group, don’t be inactive. Offer your expertise and professional insight.

Do stay on topic. Political and religious views are inappropriate for professional and industry groups. Don’t risk offending future colleagues or potential employers.

Online Content

A wealth of information is available on the Internet. Do you know what is being said about you or your company?

Do visit the social networking sites of potential employers. Many companies have blogs, Twitter accounts and/or Facebook pages. Since social media is more relaxed than corporate web pages, perusing these sites can provide insight into the company’s culture.

Do Google yourself. See what comes up in the search results. It’s possible employers will run your name through Google before interviewing or making an offer.

Don’t be oblivious to what employees are saying about your company. If you are an employer, set aside some time to search for your company on online networks – how is it portrayed by current and past employees?

Maintaining an online presence can be a powerful tool in the hiring process. Don’t be invisible to the online world. Create profiles on major social networking sites and ensure your online presence portrays you in a positive and professional light.