Using Social Networking Sites for Getting a Job

Using Social Networking Sites for Getting a Job
by Dr. Barry Miller, NY Job Search Examiner

I'm sure many of you are connecting to this column because you are looking for a job. You heard about social networking but are not sure how it works or how to use these portals to get a job. I'm going to spend the next few columns getting you to be competent in using them. First, I want you to follow some simple directions. Go to www.facebook.com and www.linkedin.com and register. I don't care if you heard negative things about any of them. Forget it. They are both valuable tools for different reasons. Does this mean that you shouldn't't use other social networking sites. Not at all, these sites have to be included. Next ask me to be part of your network. You need people to help you meet other people. On Facebook just write bmiller@pace.edu where it tells you to add friends. On Linked-in type in under add connections, Barry Miller and bmiller@pace.edu . If you know nothing about Facebook and Linked-in I recommend the following books. Facebook and Linked in for Dummies and I"'m on Linked In Now What" and I'm on Facebook Now What " These books will give you the basics on how these social networking sites work. They don't each you the proper way to connect to people in a way that leads to a job. I will tech you that. I will also connect you to important Facebook sites that give give career and job information.Also I want you to go to any University you graduated and get an alumni e-Mail. That may facilitate your connecting to alumni both on Facebook and Linked in.
In my next column I will discuss the basics of building relationships on Linked in that create job opportunities.