How you can crush it as a professional on Twitter in 2014
Employers check Facebook to make sure you’re not a crazy person. They check LinkedIn to see what generally amounts to a longer, more detailed version of your resume. So it’s generally assumed that you should have it together on Facebook and LinkedIn. But Twitter is emerging as a powerful networking tool for professionals, so it’s time to step it up and kick-start your job search in 2014 by sending out some 140-character lines.
Get yourself all situated.
If you’re really on the job hunt, hitting the networking cocktail hours like a champion, you probably already have an elevator pitch. Stick that elevator pitch right up there in your bio. This will give your followers a pretty good idea of your interests and expertise right away. Also, link to your personal website or LinkedIn so people can check it out.
Follow companies that interest you.
Most large companies have an active Twitter account; follow it to get a better idea of the company culture. Especially before an interview, check up on the company Twitter account to get an idea of what’s rumbling around the office. Maybe an event just happened or a case study was published – if you can mention it in your interview, you can show that you are interested in the company and engaged with the work the company is doing.
Chat.
Twitter is like a networking event that lasts forever. That might sound like the worst form of torture, but think of it as low-key, personal, small talk-free networking. That sounds a little better. Talk directly to people – you can establish personal connections and mentorships just by interacting with other professionals in your space.
Participate in relevant Twitter chats.
You can offer your expertise and network with like-minded professionals. These events offer you the opportunity to establish yourself as a thought leader within the online community. But how do you find Twitter chats? See Tip #1: Follow other professionals & professional communities. They will promote Twitter chats. When you find a chat coming up, do your research so you can be actively involved in the discussion. For example, if you find one called #EdTechChat, look for some timely news articles or blog posts that you can share with the group. Look at you, making all the friends, courtesy of the blue bird.
Add value.
Instead of Tweeting about how awesome the sandwich you’re eating tastes (although feel free to Tweet about that, too), share or create content. You can impress connections and potential employers with your resourcefulness and ability to utilize your limited character count. Use Twitter as a micro-blogging platform by providing value to your followers and they will notice.
When using Twitter, the idea is to make it really easy for people to find you, love you, and get in touch with you. Get involved in conversations that fascinate you, connect with people who interest you, and follow companies that compel you, and you might just stumble upon your dream job this year.
