This article is second in a five-part series where we will evaluate free services on the Internet to aid you in your job search and general career advancement.
To use Twitter as a ‘micro-blogging’ site or a place to provide a general status update is a mistake. Twitter is quickly turning into a tool that is used to project a professional, yet personable, image. And, let’s face it, image counts for a lot when looking for the right job.
Twitter is available to the public and is searchable. If a potential employer is going to search for your Internet presence, your public updates are an important part of the impression they will have of you, even before giving you a chance to interview. Tweet wisely! While you may be tempted to tweet about the crazy night you have, save that for your Facebook status (for which you may want to change the privacy settings on now). Definitely do not mention your involvement in any activity that may be obscene, extreme, or illegal. This is a powerful network on the web and is not the place you want to spread word that you’re possibly irresponsible, immature, and have a disregard for common sense.
Do Tweet your opinion about industry news, relevant (non-marketing) links, and even about positive events in your personal life. Find influential people in your industry on Twitter and follow them. When appropriate, engage in conversation by providing thoughtful commentary, asking an excellent question, or even politely offering your assistance with a question they may have posed. But remember, these industry contacts are not your personal friends, and while it may be a personable move to congratulate them, or inquire about a group meetup, you do not want to get into their personal lives.
The goal is with Twitter is to project a positive, intelligent, and professional demeanor via daily Tweets (updates). Keep up with it regularly and follow folks in similar fields. To successfully utilize Twitter, go there with the intent to be true and a useful Twitterer and you’ll have the potential to do very well and land that perfect position to advance your career.
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