By Jessica Holbrook Hernandez, Expert Resume Writer
Everyone probably remembers the first time they heard about Twitter and about how young people were throwing around their one-liners about sitting on the porch, walking to the mailbox, walking back to the porch, sitting down... well, you get the picture. But since that time, Twitter has evolved into an amazing resource for companies seeking customers - and even job seekers looking for work.
One reason that seekers have had success landing jobs through Twitter is because of the use of hashtags, which function as mini search tools. They help others find you and your comments based on your use of the number sign (#) followed by specific words (e.g., #lookingforwork). Let’s take a closer look at how they could help you find a position.
1. Hashtags Help You to Network Successfully
Hashtags have worked wonders for job seekers attempting to reach out to networks of people in hopes of acquiring help in finding work. This is because networking has become its own beast on Twitter, and hashtags have functioned as its catalyst.
For instance, if you use the hashtag #biopharma, and then note that you’re looking to network with others who are seeking work in the field, you’re likely to connect with others who have utilized or searched the same hashtag with the same interest.
Twitter is a community created to communicate and connect with others, so take this opportunity to meet new associates with similar interests.
2. Hashtags Help Recruiters and Hiring Managers Find You
Another great use of Twitter hashtags is sending out the message that you’re looking for work. This has been accomplished with great success under the #hirefriday hashtag, which is utilized on Friday to help both recruiters and hiring managers find job candidates who are actively seeking employment.
There are other hashtags out there to help recruiters and hiring managers find seekers if the seekers incorporate them into their tweets. They include #dreamjob, #hireme, #internship, #laidoff and #jobsearch.
The candidate could also expect this communication to come in the form of an e-mail. I always loved communication via e-mail; if someone had a really standout resume, then I would just e-mail the candidate to set up a time to either: a) chat over the phone, or b) schedule the initial in-person interview.
3. Top Job-Seeking Hashtags
By conducting your own Twitter searches, you’re likely to locate job opportunities that could help you find work. Here are some popular hashtags companies and recruiters use to lure candidates: #benefits, #career_fair, #compensation, #hiring, #HR, #interviewing, #jobposting, #recruiting, #resumes, and #training.
And if you’re hoping to draw some attention to your own search, consider these hashtags: #BA, #CV, #resume, #employment, #jobhunt, #MS, #needajob and #resume, along with your short message that incorporates a tiny URL linking to your resume.
When using hashtags, it’s good to utilize ones that are likely to be searched by others so that recruiters and networking buddies can find you. Twitter can indeed function as a playground for the young at heart, but with the right use, it can also function as a vehicle to reenter the workforce.
About the Author
Jessica Hernandez, is a resume authority for the Job Talk America radio program and multi-published expert author for resume, career, and job search publications. She boasts more than ten years in human resources management and hiring for Fortune 500 companies and utilizes her extensive experience to support job seekers in their quest to move onward and upward in their careers. Find out more at Great Resumes Fast.
Check out the latest Career Insider eNewsletter - November 10, 2011.
