Getting Technical With Social Media
Looking for a job in IT?
Add social media to your search, and it may get easier. Between the biggies, like LinkedIn and Twitter, and even the more social sites like Facebook, you may land the perfect job, or at least get a lead or two to help you on your way.
How will social media help your search?
By getting the word out on your social media, you’ve got a big start.
• Of course, you want to clean up and complete any loose ends on your LinkedIn profile and connect it as best as you can to the IT world. Make it look desirable for anyone looking for asset management and any other facet of IT you want. Some people on LinkedIn strive to get that above 500 count of connections, because then your profile doesn’t state a specific number, it shows 500 plus connections, which is a number that shows you’ve got big connections in the business world, a desirable attribute to many companies.
• Don’t forget the not so professional sites, though. You never know who may see a post on Facebook or tweet about your job search and pass it on to a friend or colleague who could get you somewhere.
• Before an interview, spend some time on the company’s social media sites and the person’s whom you’ll be interviewing with LinkedIn page. The more familiar you are with a company going into an interview, the more advantage you’ll have.
Researching through business social media
• Admittedly, it’s tough applying for a job via a company’s website. So many people do it that you really need a standout quality to get any notice. However, by following their social media, you may get some insider tips that could connect you to be just not a number or application.
• Again, don’t just follow LinkedIn profiles of major IT players. Follow them on Twitter as well. More and more companies are using social media to promote their business, any job openings and other pertinent information about them. By seeing direct Twitter feeds, you may get the jump on the position, as well as some insider information.
• Use social media to hone in your application, cover letter and résumé on exactly what they want – you can discover a lot of what they want on social media.
Some key qualities IT is looking for:
According to CRN.com, certain attributes are key in finding an IT position, especially at a higher level.
• Versatility – being able to adapt, learn and wear many different hats is a big part of this job. Make sure you can showcase your versatility on paper and in your interview.
• Specific skill knowledge – Being adept in applications like Linux, Python and other web applications is crucial. Also showing the ability to learn what you don’t already know is an important part in landing that IT job.
• Driven, loyal, customer-centric attributes – showing you can understand your customers and their needs are important, even when they don’t. These are personality qualities, not things you learn, so if you’ve got them, you’re a step ahead, and don’t be afraid to let it show.
IT is tough to get in now, but it’s a great place to be if you can.
Use your social media, your positive go-getter qualities and that dream job will be yours.
Photo credit: Intergratedtechnology.com
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