Skip to Main Content

Libraries & Cultural Resources

Research Guides

CCPD: Career & Job Search Resources

Connecting University of Calgary students to jobs, career planning, employers on campus, career tips, workshops and much more! This resource compliments our website ucalgary.ca/careers.

Social Media

Your job search is comprised of many different elements. Your digital presence can add value to your personal networking. Career Services can help you explore how to use social media strategically and assess tools that will best fit you.

How can I use Social Media in my job search?

  • LinkedIn - LinkedIn allows you to manage your professional identity, build and engage with your professional network and access knowledge, insights and opportunities.
  • Twitter - Use Twitter to become a thought leader in the areas you wish to specialize in. Share resources, opinions and engage in public conversations about topics that are relevant to you.
  • Pinterest - If you are a visual artist you can use Pinterest to showcase your work.
  • Instagram - Instagram can be used for people pursuing jobs in the creative industries to display projects, artwork, design projects or even hands-on skills like hair cutting.
  • Facebook - Employers are using Facebook to represent their brand, post jobs and vet candidates pre-interview. Be highly aware of what content you post here as recruiters are looking.
  • Blogs - Keeping a blog is a great way to 'get noticed' - make sure all content is professional friendly.
  • Email - Don't forget about the power of personal emails! Think about it as a mini cover letter - be sure to be polite, check spelling and create a personalized signature which includes your contact information and credentials.

Personal Brand

“Your brand is what other people say about you when you’re not in the room.”

Credibility (authenticity & trust) + Visibility (digital & personal) = YOUR BRAND

Authenticity: by identifying what makes you unique and being yourself you’ll build:

Trust: build trust by being consistent in what you do and what you say. It’s your brand promise.

Digital: what’s ‘out there’? What do you find when you Google yourself?

Personal: ask people close to you how they would describe you.

Social Media Tips

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the unemployment rate for adults ages 20 to 24 was 14.5% in August 2011. A college education used to ensure a well-paying job, but now many first careers are on hold until the economy improves. Steps that Millennials can take to increase their odds of success are discussed.

Quick Tips

Create a strategic personal plan around how you plan to use social media in your job search.
Complete your online profiles before you start networking.
Send personalized messages when connecting digitally.
Don't put things online (including Facebook!) if you don't want recruiters or potential employers to find them.
Google yourself at least once a month - being aware of what's being said about you online can help you better manage your online presence.

Additional Resources

Next Steps

Libraries & Cultural Resources