Working World

Can social networking sites really help you find a job and build your career contacts? Or are they a waste of time or, worse, damaging to your professional image? The truth is they can do all of the above. That’s why, if you’re serious about letting the web work for you, you’ve got to optimize your online presence for career building and tame your Internet frat boy (or girl).

Your Brand Identity — gives employers and contacts a clear picture of who you are and what qualities you possess. How you describe yourself to others should match your profile information online, i.e. if you list great communication and sales skills as one of your main attributes, you certainly want to project that by writing a resume and profile that proves it. Be informed about key words for your industry and sprinkle them generously throughout your profile.

Aim to Impress — Upload your resume to the social networking site of your choice to present the full sales pitch, highlight your skills, and request and add professional testimonials and referrals from colleagues. Also make sure to use a high-quality photo of yourself. Keep track of your postings and keep your information current.

Raise Visibility — and showcase your talent by participating in discussion forums and contributing articles that position you as an expert in your field. Join discussions at WorkingWorld.com, seek out specialty social networking sites such as Intent or SocialWorkout for your specific career niche, or create your own on Ning.

Split Your Personality — on the web to keep your personal life separate from your professional one. How do you do this? Consider what you already have out in cyberspace on different networking sites. Perhaps you weren’t thinking of the potential for employment when you posted those photos from the beach party last week. You can either use an alias for your personal social networking sites or educate yourself on the use of privacy settings. Ensure that only your friends see your goofy side.   

Katy Allgeyer is an artist and freelance writer. She is a columnist for Working World and Working Nurse magazines and her features have appeared there and in Feng Shui Times, The Art of WellBeing, You & Me Magazine and others.