Even if a company has only slightly caught your eye, the first step in applying for a job is to create a digital connection. And when I say a digital connection, this means creating a cohesive relationship that will hopefully become two-way and interactive. You can begin by searching for every social networking site where the company has a presence. A quick Google search of the company, or the brands within that company, will assist you in finding all dimensions of their online presence. The keyword in forming multiple connections with the company you are considering applying for a job at is “engage.”
Next, wherever you see a “like,” “friend,” or “follow” next to the company’s logo or name, click it! This will make the digital and/or marketing team at the prospective company aware of your name. Depending on how strong the company is at digitally connecting with consumers, you might even have the chance to connect with an employee before even submitting your application. Commenting, liking pictures, and re-tweeting are all ways in which you can plant the seed for a digital relationship to form. The sites where a company is most likely to engage with consumers include Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and LinkedIn. It is essential to connect with the company on multiple platforms, thus creating several opportunities for your name to appear and for you to be considered an engaged fan.
After you have connected with the company, there are several benefits that are likely to result. First, this is a convenient way to keep tabs on the company and better understand their products and services. Through their social networking sites, companies often post job openings and ways in which fans are able to contribute and engage with the company. For example, through the rise of the hash tag, it is even easier to contribute to the company’s own cyber space. For example, it is especially simple to engage with brands that you come into contact with on a daily basis. For example, next time you are wearing your favorite pair of Nike gym shoes to the gym, take a picture and post it to Instagram with the hashtag “#Nike” or “#JustDoIt.” This will catch the eye of the company, which will come in handy when they are reading over your resume. But remember: always keep is appropriate and in good taste! The last thing you want is to have your name tainted because of a poor digital presence.
As you may have already experienced during previous job searches, being digitally savvy is a must for students interested in a career in social media management. So, what is the best way to tackle the seemingly endless world of social media? Create your own digital presence, expand your network by making connections, and continue to post relevant and meaningful content.
Photos Courtesy of UW-Madison Archives
