The recruitment process before social media was already rigorous for both companies and candidates. Now, with all the possibilities for candidates and recruiters to connect via social media, it can also be slightly overwhelming.
Recruiters are still searching for a candidate to fill a specific job description but they also have to make time to connect and engage with potential candidates on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and any other social networks where they might find suitable candidates. Good thing your LinkedIn profile is current, you never miss a “job chat” on Twitter and you know all about the latest company news through their Facebook page.
Now it’s time to incorporate a few offline activities that will differentiate your brand.
Make Connections Outside of the Digital Realm
Unfortunately, regardless of how well crafted your questions and what your status updates have been, you are still only identifiable by a name and picture across all those social networks. Therefore, it’s doubtful that a recruiter can remember every online conversation (or participant) regardless of how recent or engaging it was. How else can you engage with recruiters to stand out among other job seekers?
Send a Handwritten Thank You
The life span of a Twitter “mention” is very short. That’s why a handwritten note sent by snail mail will leave a longer lasting impression on recruiters. Instead of sending out a mention to recruiters after the next Twitter job chat, send out a handwritten Thank You note mentioning something the recruiter shared and why you found it helpful.
They will be thrilled that you took the time to write a personal note to express your gratitude. Make sure to include your Twitter handle along with your signature in case they want to search for you.
Attend a Career Fair
Find out which of the companies you follow will be at the next career fair in your city. Then, plan on attending and introducing yourself to the recruiters there. You can mention a recent update or pictures from an event they posted on the company’s Facebook page and why you enjoyed it. Also, make sure the resume you submit has your social media profiles listed to make it easier for them to match the in-person you with the digital-you. Don’t forget to follow up!
Celebrating Latinos Through Theater
Network Offline
The people you talk to (in person) daily or maybe a few times a week are part of your “offline” network. Identify any “offline” contacts working or that have worked at one of the companies you are interested in. Ask them if they know how you can go about setting up an informational interview at the company to learn more about a specific job.
You’ll be surprised at how much others enjoy helping out during your job search! Another way to connect offline is by attending industry events or volunteering in your community. This ensures your brand will exist beyond your online networks.
In order to differentiate yourself, you need to show recruiters (and anyone who can connect you with them) who the person behind the digital screen is and how you can bring value the company.
Brenda Marungo is one of the Channel Managers at iHispano.com, the nation's premier professional networking site and job board for Latinos in the United States. Follow iHispano.com on Twitter @iHispano and on Facebook to stay up-to-date on the latest career tips and job opportunities.
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