For people like me, research via social media is second nature. But it does not come as easily to everyone, or so some of the feedback from my previous post suggests. Using networking websites to research the company culture of a potential employer may seem like a lot of work, but the extra effort can streamline your job hunt. Not only would you be better equipped to decide which companies have an optimal work environment for you, you’re able to narrow your application efforts to just those companies (instead of casting your net wide), and to figure out the best way to present yourself to them as a candidate.
At a time when the ratio of qualified applicants to job openings seems impossibly high, being the right fit for the office community and culture can be a decisive factor. Companies are not just looking for just another suit to perform a task. They’re looking for a person, someone who will work optimally in their unique environment, someone they will be happy to interact with on a regular basis. Job posting descriptions can often be vague about this. Every employer lists that they’re looking for an enthusiastic, highly organized, self-starter, with excellent communications skills—but some obviously mean it more than others. Having an idea of the type of individual has thrived there in the past will help you know whether you’re right for the job.
How do you know? Research.
For iGen millennials who grew up in the information age, Googling and social networking are second nature. They know what to look for and where to scour to gain that social advantage in their job hunt because they’ve been Facebooking their friends since high school. More seasoned workers might feel overwhelmed with it all. Unfortunately, it’s a really useful tool to have and can only be learned by doing. So here are some ways to get the hang of it:
Follow your prospective companies on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn, and (this is key!) make a habit of actually checking their updates. Sure, the latter task may be bothersome to those who are unfamiliar, but including it in your daily routine, like reading the newspaper or grabbing lunch, may make it easier to get in the habit. In fact, companies often make it a point to launch their social media and email campaigns during early afternoon when they suspect workers will be jonesing for their 15-minute coffee break and headlines fix.
When deciding what to search for, think of trying to get to know your prospective employer as much as you would try to get to know someone you’re dating. Wouldn’t you want to know their “type”? Browse through public profiles of those who previously held your coveted position. What school did they go to? What did they study (something liberal or technical)? What skills do they have? What type of writing do they use to describe their position and responsibilities to describe themselves? Is it dynamic or basically informative? Let your curiosity guide you to see if the position is a match for you. You’re not obliged to remember everything you glance through, but what you do retain can undoubtedly help you decide how to efficiently move forward in your job pursuits.
by Abena, Wall Street Services Reporter
