Using Social Media for Your Development

When I was working full time with an organization, I never thought about social media. I guess it’s the same for most people steaming ahead at their respective workplaces. If someone asked to connect on LinkedIn I usually put it off because I was too busy doing something.  Plus, I didn't really know how it worked.  It meant that I would have to create a LinkedIn page, something that I didn't think I had the time or energy to do. Then I thought, "Hummmm, is that person leaving their job and letting people know that they're looking?"

Fast forward a couple of years, LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Xing and other sites are common place and yes, people are using them to find a job. It’s been splashed all over the place that networking, including social networking brings up to 85% of new jobs. What I never knew back then, is how helpful social media is in keeping up with the newest trends, technology and even buzz words in the industry. There are groups for everything and if a free membership to LinkedIn allows you up to 50 groups, then why not take advantage of them? Here is how I see social media helping both the employed and the active job seeker:

1. If you work full time, it is sometimes hard to keep up with current findings in your field.  You're either too busy putting out fires, creating something, servicing something, attending meetings, etc. While you are toiling away for those 8 - 10 hours a day, your field is changing. By joining a couple of LinkedIn groups or on-line professional discussion groups, you can read/learn/speak of the current opportunities in your industry.  Here's an exmple.  For years I was the only learning and development specialist in my organizational unit of 4,000 employees. I didn't have anyone to bounce ideas off or share tips. I just designed, developed and plowed ahead. Attending a conference was eye opening since there were hundreds of other professionals just like me! I always came home refreshed, energized and excited to try something new.  The same can be said about social media (without the trip to Orlando). The ideas, concepts and sharing are energizing and you can apply tips and share the results immediately.

2. If you are actively seeking work, your deep understanding of the current state of your field and industry can only help you. Your ability to speak comfortably about your past use of certain skills and the future outlook for certain technology, services, and your particular area of expertise will not disappoint.

3. As an independent contractor these same strategies hold true.  Why work in a vacuum when you can research, share information and stay on top of your industry?

Times are rapidly changing and within the past few years social media has become more common.  By taking advantage of it, you can stay current and active and feel as if your are making a contribution.