Social networking sites can help, hinder job search

By Bryan Tharpe, Fort Rucker Soldier for Life CenterJanuary 29, 2015

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FORT RUCKER, Ala. (January 29, 2015) -- The social networking site facebook.com is a great tool to use when you are job searching. It has the potential to link you with hundreds of people -- some of whom may be employers -- all across the world.

However, it can be a two-edged sword.

When you open a Facebook page you can post all kinds of information on it. Others, who become your friends or fans, can read your information when they find your Facebook page, such as your resume, interests, hobbies, etc.

If you ask for their help in finding job leads, some will be obliged to assist you. This can lead you to numerous job leads that you didn't know about. Also, since every person also knows about 250 people, their circle of friends or fans can get involved in your cause. With all this additional help, your job search could go much faster and smoother.

On the other hand, a Facebook page has to be professional at all times if you are going to use it for your job search. Even if you don't intend to use it, some employers will do a search on your name to see what they can find on the Internet pertaining to you.

If it is positive, it may be helpful; however, if it is negative, it will not help at all, and may even hurt your chances of getting and keeping the job you want. This applies to all kinds of social networking sites that contain any information about you.

Try doing a Google search on your name and see how much information comes up. Is there anything there that you wouldn't want your potential employer or current employer to know about? If so, take it offline before it is found.

For more information on the latest applications of job search techniques, contact your Soldier for Life Center at 255-2558.

Related Links:

USAACE and Fort Rucker on Twitter

USAACE and Fort Rucker on Facebook

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Fort Rucker Soldier for Life Center

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