Yas Kojouri | Head of Careers
Using Social Media for Job Hunting: Best Practices and Pitfalls to Avoid
In a competitive job market, it’s very important to diversify your job search to increase your chances of success! Social media platforms have become a key part of our personal lives, but it’s important to remember that they are also a powerful recruitment tool because many employers use social media to share vacancies and as a means of finding talent for their organisation.
This blog explores how you can use social media to support your job search by using the channels effectively, whilst avoiding common mistakes that could risk your chances of securing a job.
- Employers often pre-screen potential candidates through social media, so you must ensure your channels are professional. Your accounts can show your interests, lifestyle and behaviour outside of work, so think about whether your LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram etc. has content which you wouldn’t want a potential employer to see. A social media search by an employer is the first impression you are making on them, so any inappropriate images, videos or posts could impact your chances of being shortlisted for an opportunity or securing a job. Do a Google search on your name (while logged out of your accounts) and see the search results through the eyes of a potential employer.
- Social media can still be influential even when you're already employed. You could put yourself at risk if your employer notices content that is not deemed appropriate on your social media accounts, particularly posts about your organisation or colleagues that could create a negative impression. We have all seen posts where someone shares an update about their day, and these are not always positive.
- An online presence gives you the chance to showcase your skills, experiences and personal brand. It provides a great opportunity to share your accomplishments and demonstrate your expertise. There isn’t always room on a CV to include all achievements, so use LinkedIn to share examples of your work in photos, presentations, videos and blogs. This will enhance your visibility and allow an employer to see what you can do. Incorporate job-specific keywords into your profile and seek endorsements and recommendations from your connections to highlight your achievements and make your successes known.
- Follow organisations you would be interested in working for; many employers have LinkedIn, Facebook or X accounts where they share information. You can look for advertised opportunities, keep up to date on company news, products and services, and learn about events they might be running. Some employers even share application tips and provide an insight into their company values, so this can be a big help if you are considering applying to an organisation.
- Network to create your own opportunities! Following organisations and joining industry groups allows you to send direct messages, and you can use social media to make new contacts in your chosen industry. Someone you connect with today could be a valuable contact in the future. Opportunities are tied to people, and people manageresources, information and jobs. If you’re searching for these things, what you’re really looking for is the right person to connect with who is in control of them.Comment on conversations, ask relevant questions and share your thoughts with like-minded people. You might get noticed, which could open a door for you and create acareer opportunity.
Social media can be a valuable tool for job hunting, and when used strategically, it can significantly boost your chances of success!
References
Prospects (2025) Social media and job hunting. Available at: (Accessed: 18 March 2025).
Save the Student (2025) How to use social media to get a job. Available at: (Accessed: 18 March 2025).
Milkround (2025) How social media can hurt your job search. Available at: (Accessed: 18 March 2025).