As an international student, you probably have multiple online profiles to stay connected. But are you connecting on a professional level? With the advancement in technology, it’s no surprise that many employers today are taking advantage of social media to find their next hires.
Don’t wait for headhunters and hiring managers to get in touch, make the most of your online presence and stand out in a competitive market with these simple steps:
Improve your profile
Building your social media profile is similar to building a resume, except it’s done online. When filling out your online page, make sure you complete your educational background, employment history, and skills related to the job you want to pursue. It would also be great to highlight your achievements and the current organizations you are a part of.
In addition, if you want to hear more about vacancies, it pays to include your email address on your page and indicate your desire to find a job so that recruiters can contact you.
Keep it up to date and professional
Like it or not, your profile picture is the first thing people see when they visit your page. To have a strong online presence, start with a professional looking portrait photo as your profile picture. This does not necessarily mean wearing formal business attire; a clear, quality and photo will suffice. Remember to update your information as needed, especially when taking on a new role in an organization.
To keep your digital identity professional, you may also need to remove photos or comments that look unprofessional. If you want to make a favorable impression with a potential employer, remove any information you don’t want them to see.
Follow career relevant groups
Social media has many professional groups that can help you stay abreast of industry trends, find like-minded connections, and expand your professional networks.
Make it a habit to join or follow organizations relevant to your intended career. It’s also important to connect with your classmates, professors, and other people with similar career interests. This gives headhunters the impression that you are addicted to a certain field of study or industry.