Can Facebook/Twitter/Linkedin really help you find a job?
Here are some good and bad examples of how social networking was used in job search.
Below are a few different requests I have personally received through Facebook and LinkedIn of people looking for a job. The contrast is funny.
This is an actual message I received. This is the Bad Example:
Hey,
I know this is kind of different to say the lest but i really would like to know if you know of any opens at you work or you friends work. If so like me know. Some of things that I am good at are I can work a fork lift and I a fast learn and can work with a computer and problem solver and easy to work with. so pass that along if you hear something. Because I have learned that 80% of jobs are found through networking. So i though i would try Facebook out.
Your friend,
Mr. Cant Write
As you may have guessed, I did not pass this individuals name on to anybody, and I am a person that loves to help somebody get a job. The same rules apply in social networking that apply in a standard resume or letter. At the very least, make sure you punctuate and spell correctly. Also, the more personal you make it the better.
Here is a better example. I received this message through LinkedIn. Notice how it is personalized and specific and well written. I gladly passed this one on, and you’ll see the follow up letter he wrote to my connection. (I changed some of the names below)
Hey Mike,
One of your connections, John Deere, works for Backcountry.com. I am graduating in May and I am looking for career opportunities in the outdoor industry. I think that he could be a good person to have as a connection.
Thanks,
~Mr. Job Seeker
Mr. Job Seeker’s note to my connection John Deere:
Hello,
I am a friend of Mike’s and I am doing all I can to make some solid connections within the outdoor industry. I’ve been working with campsaver.com for the last year and I am looking for opportunities outside of Logan, UT. I will be graduating in Business with a minor in Marketing in May.
I have management and sales experience. I am great at learning new things as well. I think that having you as a connection could help me at least get my foot in the door. Thanks.
~Mr. Job Seeker
Remember that social networking can be a powerful tool to help find a job or progress your career if you use it correctly. Let me know if you have any ideas or examples of how social media has helped or hindered somebody in finding a job.
