How the social media sphere can grow your career

Today, students and professionals cannot ignore the fundamental value of social media in enhancing education, finding lucrative job opportunities, and building lifelong connections.

Here are 6 ways that social media can help you discover new and exciting career opportunities.

Network without borders

Probably the most obvious advantage of getting connected online, is the ability to put yourself in contact with thousands of like-minded professionals all over the world. Never before has networking become so instantaneous. You can easily apply for jobs, get in touch with alumni, or seek career advice using a multitude of social media sites. Join a professional group on Facebook or retweet a post from an industry insider on Twitter to make the most of your networking efforts. The more exposure you have online, the easier it is for you to build valuable contacts.

Find a mentor

Finding a mentor today is a lot easier than it once was – you can easily interact with leaders in your industry by sharing their content on Google+, commenting on one of their LinkedIn posts, or endorsing them on a Twitter chat using the @mentions feature. Over time, once you feel you have developed a connection, you can request a short-term or long-term mentor-ship. As long as you initiate contact, remain committed and show your appreciation for their time – the professional guidance you receive will be rewarding for both you and your mentor.

Subscribe to a blog

If you want to stay updated on the latest trends, be informed of new job opportunities, or find out what your peers are up to – then subscribing to a blog is the perfect way to keep you informed. You can sign up for blogs written by experts in your current industry, or one that you’re interested in joining, and get new updates delivered straight to your inbox. Best of all, comment features allow you to start a conversation with bloggers, and potentially build new professional relationships.

Start a Facebook or LinkedIn group

Whether you’re looking for recommended reading materials or need some advice on the best way to pitch an idea to your boss – social networking groups are a great way to gather and share thoughts, stories, tips and feedback with industry professionals from all over the world. Plus, the advice you disperse to others will add to your online credibility, thus increasing your online authority.