Looking for a job? Scanned the want ads? Sent out resumes? Pounded the pavement? Nothing yet? The traditional search strategies are important but opportunities are virtually everywhere, so don’t forget the Internet. Job boards like Monster, Workopolis and Indeed.com are a good start, but networking platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter are fast becoming the essential tools for savvy job seekers.

Your online network and professional image has never been more important. Remember the saying, “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” That’s still true today, but by using social media, who you know can be multiplied ten fold!

The Missing LinkedIn

Did you know that close to 90<>percentage<> of all employers are now using LinkedIn to source candidates? Setting up a LinkedIn profile is one of the most common online strategies for job seekers, but unfortunately it’s not always used to its maximum advantage. What happens when you’ve uploaded your CV and a great picture, but still – no bites! It’s likely you haven’t fully realized your own “professional brand”—that which you want to be known for. You’ve got to distinguish yourself; let employers know how valuable you are. Remember, you are the product for sale here.

Your LinkedIn profile should have a personalized, concise summary, highlighting your strengths. Start with a simple tagline which will appear alongside your LinkedIn activity. It should indicate what you do and where you excel, ideally drawing potential employers to your profile. Make sure it combines your title with keywords relating to your expertise. For example, if you’re looking for work in social media, you might say; Experienced Social Media Strategist seeking opportunities in Campaign Management. And include a personal touch like; Born to create buzz.

Once you’ve completed your profile, it’s time to start networking and building strategic relationships. Take some time to identify your ideal position and research specific companies that may have openings in your field. If you’d love to land a spot at Laurentian Bank as a teller, extend your network in that direction. Research Laurentian on the web and visit branches in your area. Think about who you may know that knows someone at Laurentian? Don’t be shy to use your network.

Tweet Your Way In

Twitter is another great platform to search for openings, and is gaining momentum as a job search strategy. You may find here what isn’t posted elsewhere. Simply look up the feeds of companies you’re interested in. Your Twitter profile should state the type of work you’re seeking, and attach a professional avatar. Recruiting accounts like @TweetMyJobs or the specific @medical_jobs are there to help.

Target Practice

When contacting employers directly, tailor your resume and pitch to each one. Use relevant vocabulary, focusing on your achievements and capabilities. For work in a photo studio, for instance, state what equipment and editing software you’re familiar with. Whether applying in retail at Carrefour Laval or to an architectural firm in Montreal, a custom résumé is more likely to land you an interview. To help prepare for that happy event, check out YES at www.yesmontreal.ca for employment workshops and career counselling services offered online. And good luck!