How To Manage Your Online Profile Before Getting Out There As A Professional
The transition from student life to the world of work can feel like a big step. Naturally, you have to give up some of the freedoms you enjoyed as a student and change how you go about certain aspects of your life.
In today’s digital age, one of the key considerations for all jobseekers should be their online image. As a student, you are unlikely to have given too much thought to your social profile, but this is important for people to consider before beginning their professional careers. As many as 70% of employers admit to checking a candidate’s social media as part of the recruitment process[1].
To help you manage and protect your online persona, we’ve put together five simple steps for you to follow before you start applying for jobs.
Check your privacy settings
You might be surprised that the default setting for social media platforms tends to be public. That means anyone, from a recruiter to a prospective employer, could scroll through your posts. If you have anything considered discriminatory or offensive on your social media, you risk ruining your reputation before even getting your foot in the door.
Set aside some time to scan through your accounts and delete anything that could potentially come across as unprofessional. Moving forward, try to get in the habit of thinking twice before posting or tweeting.
Also, manage your privacy settings on social media. Update your profile on Facebook so that only friends can see what you post. Although it’s best to keep Twitter public to stay better connected be extra aware of anything that you tweet, like or share.
Make the most of LinkedIn
LinkedIn is the most popular networking platform boasting 750 million users worldwide[2]. It’s a great forum to search for job opportunities and connect with other professionals.
Be aware that LinkedIn is used by recruiters to compare candidates, so regularly update your page to reflect your achievements and skills. Profiles with professional headshots are more likely to be viewed[3], so include an approachable and up-to-date image.
Connect with your peers and anyone you’ve met through work experience or during an internship. You can even include a short message alongside your invitation to connect to make things more personal.
Finally, join and contribute to groups related to your industry to highlight your interests to anyone who looks at your profile.
Protect your identity and passwords
Getting hacked when you’re contacting prospective employers is less than ideal.
To reduce the chances of your email address being compromised, never use the same password twice, log out of shared computers and only download software from authorised sources that you trust.
If you think you might have been hacked, tell your contacts to avoid opening any emails from your account until the situation has been resolved.
Stand out
To set yourself apart from your peers, consider creating a professional website or blog. There are premium website builders, but also plenty of free platforms such as Wix and Weebly. Once you’re set-up, upload your CV along with a personal statement, professional headshot and contact details.
Alternatively, you could start a blog. Communication skills are invaluable for any industry and it’s a great way to highlight your hobbies to a prospective employer.
Make sure your email address is professional
You’ll be using email to send CVs and cover letters so be aware that an unprofessional email address could hurt your chances of success.
To put your best foot forward, keep things simple by sticking with a variation of your first and last name.
[1] How recruiters check for red flags on social media: Human Resources Director
[2] About LinkedIn: LinkedIn
[3] 11 tips to follow for the perfect LinkedIn profile picture in 2020: Meero