There is no denying that Facebook is one of the most popular social networking sites around. This popularity makes Facebook one of the most powerful tools to use when looking for a job. Facebook magnifies your networking circle a hundred-fold. Not only can you make personal contacts using Facebook, but you can also find companies and potential hiring organizations as well. Facebook may be the ticket to your next job.

Set-up

The first step is to set up a Facebook account if you have not done so already. You may be nervous about entering the social networking game, but it’s necessary. Facebook is free and can be set up within a few minutes. Once you have an account, start your quest toward using social networking to find a job.

Friends and fans

This would be a pivotal time to make an important decision. Remember that more and more employers are searching through Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn pages to get a glimpse of any potential candidates. When you set up your page decide if you’re going the personal route, or whether if your page is going to be “employer-friendly.”

Look for companies you would be interested in working for. More and more companies are setting up pages every day. A company Facebook page will tell you a lot about an organization. Depending upon the extent of their networking, you can find out a lot of information including; people who work for them, organizational initiatives, the names of key people within the organization, vacant positions and events the organization is holding. Becoming a “fan” can lead you to similar companies. Daily news feeds will help you to stay on top of the information.

Even though your Facebook page may be totally dedicated to your job search, you should still “friend” friends. Friends can often steer you to possible new jobs as they see your posting trends. Do your best not to sound like a desperate job seeker, but rather as a professional in transition. Keep in mind that you are known by the company you keep. If a friend posts something undesirable on your page, feel free to hide or delete their comments.

Remember that your virtual image is the one that future employees will see. Expanding your networking circle using Facebook will help to increase your job search success. Remember, however, to keep it clean.

The Web 2.0 Job Finder: Winning Social Media
Your 24/7 Online Job Search Guide