How to tweet your way to your dream job

Social media can be your friend in your job hunt… if you do it right.   

Who you’re connected with on LinkedIn, or what you’re sharing on Twitter, might seem irrelevant in the hunt for your next dream job. 

But according to Sarah Ferraina, head of marketing at Beaumont People, building an online presence is a great way to not only show off your skills, experience, and body of work, but it can also connect you with like-minded people, resulting in partnerships and job opportunities. 

So what’s the best way to go about it?   

Take a pretty (professional) picture 

Because your profile picture is the first thing people (and potential employers) are going to see, you’ll need to ditch the pixelated shot of you on holiday with your family in the frame.   

“Make your first visual impression count by displaying a good professional photo,” Ferraina says. 

“As the second visual element at the top of your profile page, your background photo is also important. It grabs people’s attention, sets the context and shows a little more about what matters to you.” 

Fill in the gaps  

This might sound silly, but it’s really important to fill out all the information the website is asking you to fill out. 

On a platform such as LinkedIn, take some time to think of a standout headline and tell people why your skills matter. 

“Don’t just use this to list your skills or the job titles you’ve had. Try to bring to life why those skills matter – and the difference they can make to the people you work with,” Ferraina explains. 

Be consistent 

Make sure you are posting, retweeting and sharing relevant content that really shows off your abilities on a regular basis. This will attract attention and will make it easier to meet great people.  

“It requires a commitment to be actively involved in the platform and connect with others,” she says.  

“Those who are actively adding to their profiles, building connections, tend to reap the greatest benefits.” 

Keep it professional 

If you are using this account to showcase your work as a leader of organisations, then stick to sharing content that demonstrates that. 

Ferraina says that while there is nothing wrong with also using your account to post personal content, be mindful of who may be looking at your profile. 

“Particularly on networks outside of LinkedIn and Twitter, avoid posting anything that could undermine your values, credibility and trust,” she says. 

“This doesn’t mean you can’t share aspects of your life such as hobbies, adventures or your family though. It is important to be authentic no matter which way you choose.”