5 Great Strategies in Finding Jobs through Google+

11 May 2011

As of July 31, 2011, Google+ already has over 15 million unique visitors – that’s quite a feat considering that it’s a new entrant in the world of social networking. There are plenty of reasons for Google Plus’ sudden boom. The most obvious explanation has something to do with curiosity; everyone wants to figure out if it can really kill Facebook and / or Twitter. Some members find it so easy to use, such as creating a profile. As long as you have a Google account, you’re ready to use G+. What’s great about this new social media platform is that it’s not only confined to social relationships. You can also use Google+ to expand your network and find jobs that you like.

If you’re currently looking for a job, here are some handy tips that could increase your chances of getting hired:

1. Fill out and complete your About profile.
Google Plus’ About page is very simple; it shouldn’t take you forever to fill it out. But once you do, make sure that you can make it as comprehensive as possible. For example, in the About section, talk about your professional interests. Don’t miss out the bragging rights. Consider it as listing down all the achievements you’ve made in your field. Then there’s Occupation, which is the best area to share the current and past jobs you have and had.

2. Create a link to your LinkedIn.
Some experts say that Google Plus is about to end LinkedIn, but until it happens, it’s a good idea to create a LinkedIn profile. This way you’re hitting two birds in one stone. See to it that your LinkedIn profile can be viewed publicly and treat it as your online resume. You can see the Links section on the right side of the About page.

3. Upload your videos.
It’s unfortunate to know that several candidates still don’t make the most out of videos. They (especially those that showcase your portfolio and skills) are some of the best tools in landing a job. You can show off the things that you can really do. Videos can make your resume more visually appealing.

4. Tell your contacts about it.
Don’t waste the status message section. Let the rest of your contacts know that you’re on the prowl for new jobs. But before you get too excited with that, keep in mind the following:

• Avoid spamming. Reminding your contacts once a week should be enough.
• Choose the right circle (you’ll learn more about this later).
• Don’t sound so desperate or blab about things. Employers would be having second thoughts in hiring you.

5. Take control of your circles.
One of the best and unique features of Google Plus is Circles. You can liken it to having your own circle of friends. The only difference is it’s literal, and it is online. By using Circles, you can sort out your contacts to work, family, friends, interests – the labels and classifications are all up to you (though it’s not recommended to create a lot because it will be hard for you to manage all of them). Place all your industry contacts in work and tag them in your status messages should you be searching for work.

Because Google+ is still on beta, plenty of helpful job searching tools are still missing. However, you don’t have to wait for them to happen before you start looking for work.

While in Beta, Google + is only available per invitations, which we are giving out. To get an invitation please leave a comment on this article, having included your Gmail address and do one of the following:

1. Like our Facebook fan page;
2. Follow us on Twitter;
3. Follow us on LinkedIn.

Check out our CAREER section to find the right job for you!

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