Trying to get a job–whether it is for the first time or because you need a change–can be a very long and frustrating process. Everybody will have their own resources and different things work for different people. The search is not linear and it will never be the same for anyone. You will definitely need advice from those who have been working for a long time, but in the end your search will be very unique. However, I suggest you listen to what they have to say and take advantage of those recommendations that might make your experience a little bit easier.

Nowadays, most companies only take online applications and they reach out to a very select number of candidates. You will find multiple job openings but with time you will come to see that only some of them call you for an interview. It is a very frustrating process because you do not know if people are really going through your resume or what they really thought of you. Sadly, if your resume does not immediately catch their eye, you will not have the opportunity to introduce yourself and show them what you are worth. For that very reason, your application has to be stunning and eye catching.

I spent a little over a year job hunting and, for the most part, it was very frustrating. The first thing I did was set up accounts on multiple platforms (LinkedIn, ZipRecruiter, Indeed, Monster, among others) and apply to as many jobs as I could. On a daily basis, I would fill out at least twelve applications. There came a point in which I actually lost count and even forgot some of the positions I had applied for. This is very common among recent graduates and those who are trying to jump-start their career. We apply to everything that sounds appealing and we hope they will see something in us that is worthy.

It was during that process, that I realized social media was a key component. Many of the companies I was applying to, wanted the links to your social media accounts. That serves them as the first impression they will get from you and gives them an idea of the kind of person you are. However, that is not the only reason why social media can become important in your job hunting process. There are multiple organizations that use those platforms to post different opportunities they may have. Not everybody uses LinkedIn or their official website because they are trying to reach a larger number of people.

Facebook, for example, allows companies to post their career opportunities so that their users can easily find them. When you come across these posts, you can fill out your resume directly on the website and it will be sent to the company as a message. If you are not sure they will receive it, many companies have their contact information so you can reach out to them and let them know you have applied through their Facebook page. This is a more accessible way of connecting with hiring teams that will give you the opportunity to chat with them about your qualifications and your experience.

Social media has a huge impact on the world today so it is inevitable that it can be a great tool when it comes to finding a job. I would suggest you have a professional profile that you can share with the companies of your liking. This way, you will give a great first impression and you will have access to a bigger network. If you are job hunting and think you have used all your resources, you should try your social media accounts. Reach out to different companies and hiring teams through their sites. You never know, your next job could be a Tweet away.

Want to become a Noodle contributor? Email: contributor@noodle.com