What do you want a recruiter to see after Googling your name?

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Social media can really impact your job hunt. It’s smart to keep things professional while looking into your network for opportunities. Whether you’re currently working, a new grad, or just looking, it’s all about sharing your skills and goals without coming off too eager.

Try these tips to make the most of social media during your job hunt.

1. Clean Up Your Profiles

Your online presence should tell the story you want hiring managers to see.

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Before you start your job search, Google yourself and clean up anything that might seem unprofessional — because to a recruiter, your online presence is who you are.

Flaticon Icon You can do these things:

Check out more tips from this article for your social media clean-up. 🧹

Quiz

You are reviewing your old posts and you noticed a typo. What's the best thing to do?

2. Update Your Profiles

"72% of recruiters use LinkedIn to hire people."

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If you haven't yet, now is the best time to set up or update your LinkedIn profile.

Tip: Recruiters and your connections will reach you through your email, so be sure to use a professional-looking email address.

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Next, boost your presence to employers by optimizing your LinkedIn and other profiles. Aim for a balance that appeals to both human recruiters and algorithms.

Watch this video for an example of how to make your LinkedIn profile stand out. It's meant for software engineers but the tips can apply to any profession:

3. Network on Social Media Without It Feeling Awkward

Networking is important because it’s one of the best ways to meet new people, learn from others, and open up new career opportunities.

Snl Networking GIF by Saturday Night Live

Here are ways to network using social media:

  • Reach out. Send a direct personal message to start building a connection. Remember to be friendly and professional — you're not writing an email.

  • Connect with people from all levels for diverse support and opportunities.

  • Join groups that are related to your interests to meet like-minded people.

  • Introduce yourself to new people, state your purpose clearly, and include a call to action to effectively grow your network.

Example message: "I'm looking to connect with professionals in software engineering and expand my network — would love to connect and share insights!"

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Don’t focus only on what others can do for you — make sure to share your own insights and help out whenever you can.

Quiz

You only connect with people who are at high-level positions and ignore peers or entry-level contacts online. Which statement below is the most likely result?

4. Share Content that Shows You Know your Stuff

Share what you learn to show you’re actively growing and putting in the effort to build your skills — something employers notice.

A man in a suit says,

Your learning journey includes:

  • the courses you’re taking

  • side projects

  • takeaways from a job or internship.

Watch the video to get tips how to start posting on Linkedin:

Take Action

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Start leveling up your social media today and take charge of your career. Give these tips a try and see what new opportunities come your way:

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