Want to make sure you’re using social media to its fullest for your job search? Don’t worry, EdSurge’s own social media pro is here to answer your questions. Learn about how to use social branding and social networking to jump into a new industry, boost your call-backs and find a career you love.
EdSurge Jobs: What is social branding?
Aneesa: Social branding is the way you present yourself online. All of us have a digital footprint and a digital shadow—being cognizant of what these are helps you curate what kind of persona your potential employer sees when they Google you, look you up on LinkedIn, or find you on Twitter. Social branding is when you make a decision about what you want these results to be and what parts of your experience you want to highlight.
EdSurge Jobs: Why is social branding important for jobseekers?
Aneesa: Employers want to know that you’re an engaged member of your field, and they’re looking for people who come with ideas and connections which can be called upon. This is exactly what social branding can draw their attention to.
EdSurge Jobs: How does this relate to edtech or education?
Aneesa: Educators, especially in higher education, can have a lot on their CVs—adjuncting before getting you get tenure, moving from institution to institution, service and research. Likewise, a lot of educators are making a transition into edtech, so they need to ensure their resumes, cover letters and online profiles demonstrate how their classroom or institutional experience is relevant to a new role. Although edtech companies are looking to hire educators, they don’t necessarily know that “managed a class of 40” means you can multitask, prioritize and get sh*t gone.
EdSurge Jobs: When you were last looking for a job, how did youuse your social media channels to stand out?
Aneesa: I followed every company I applied to and the people who I interviewed with. You want to show that you’re a fan of the company and that you’re fluent in the language of the industry. Following them online can also give you insight into the company culture and whether or not you’d be a good fit.
EdSurge Jobs: How can you use social media to network?
Aneesa: Use each social network for what it’s good for. Research your interviewers on LinkedIn to see what their professional experience is, but find them on Facebook to see if you have any mutual friends. Making a personal connection can help you be memorable or get a meaningful reference. Remember that each social media platform has a specialty: LinkedIn is professional, Facebook is personal, Twitter is public. I use Twitter to interact with educators as well as fellow marketers. Merging your professional and personal worlds can illustrate how passionate and committed you are to your field or the industry you want to get into.”
EdSurge Jobs: What would be one major tip you would give job seekers?
Aneesa: Be authentic. Share what you’re excited about, but don’t be afraid to ask tough questions if you have concerns. You can even be snarky, as long as you only post what you’re proud of.
EdSurge Jobs: How about some 'don’ts' of social media networking?
Aneesa: Don’t be unprofessional, because a bad reputation is just a screenshot away. Also, when it comes time for me to recommend them, it surprises me how many of my former interns don’t have LinkedIn profiles. No matter how exaggerated the myth of the endlessly job-hopping millennial is, it’s important that you have a professional space online—even if you’re just starting out. (College students, take note!)
