We have all seen them – those social media stars who have a huge number of fans/followers. They are influential, authentic, consistent, engaging and create useful content; their online reputation is stellar. When they tweet or post, people listen – and respond. They are seen as the “go-to” experts in their field.
They have successfully developed their personal online reputation, and, in doing so, have furthered their careers. You can to, but you will need to successfully leverage social media to do so. Here are 8 tips on how to do just that:
- Listen and Learn
Listen (or read) conversations related to your career interests and learn from them. In order to contribute, you need to be educated.
- Find Your Voice
Writing on social media sites is very different than writing a term paper. A more personal/casual approach to writing works better. Write how you speak (albeit with proper grammar and syntax).
- Define yourself
Define your niche and consistently focus the majority of online conversations and content to that niche. Specialists are more valued than generalists.
- Share insight and provide advice
Sharing insights/advice and providing useful and pertinent information that will help your followers solve their problems goes a long way. No matter how much information may be on the web regarding a particular subject, anyone can bring something new to the table.
- Be Real and Approachable
Social media is about being “social”. In much the same way, you need to be amicable in real life, you need to appear real and approachable on the web. Letting people know about you via posts and fun pictures provides a complete picture of you and your world. Caution though…..do not court controversy with what you post or say. What is put on the web, stays on the web.
- Be responsive
When people socialize, there is an expectation that the conversation will be two-way. You need to respond – in a timely manner – to comments on your blog, tweets, etc. Thank others for following you and retweeting your content.
- Reciprocate
People will stop reaching out to you and sharing if you do not return the favor. If someone reaches out to you, do not ignore them. Would you walk away or stare at your smartphone if they walked up to you. Leave comments on others’ blogs, share and retweet their content.
- Beware of Anger and Inappropriate Humor
Certain types of humor do not translate to the written word. Be careful. Sarcasm, edgy language, cynicism and outright anger typically do not translate well to posts, tweets, etc. Remember again…what is put on the web, stays on the web, and is forwarded to others on the web.
Successfully managing your online reputation is of upmost importance during your job hunt. If you are currently looking for a new position, we want to help. At Job Store Staffing®, we are renowned for our expertise in local markets. Send your résumé in today. We look forward to hearing from you.