Earning a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems degree is a strong choice for students who have interests in technology, business and the many points where those two topics intersect. The University of Alabama at Birmingham is proud to offer students the chance to pursue an online information systems degree that offers them the knowledge and experience they may need in the modern economy.
Today’s recruiting and job-posting workflows are increasingly focused on digital dissemination and interaction. It’s vital that students have a powerful, useful understanding of how they can use tools like social media to their advantage as they seek out what is often their first position in the information systems field. Keep this advice on social media and job hunting in mind to better your chances of making connections with recruiters and finding more potential opportunities.
Finding a job in the social media age
Be professional and shrewd
Social media offers many opportunities to stay in touch with friends and family and keep memories of all sorts of events easily visible. However, some of the things people post may be seen as a negative by potential employers.
There are a few different ways to address this concern:
- Some will curate their social media feeds and review past posts and messages, deleting the items that may reflect poorly on them in the context of trying to secure a professional position in the information systems field. This strategy can involve a lot of time and effort, but it also allows job-seekers to present a positive, composed, and well-manicured social media presence that has no potentially shocking or offensive elements.
- Others focus more heavily on privacy settings and separating their online identity from a real-life one. There are many interests and events that are harmless and inoffensive but could still create a less-than-positive first impression for a job candidate. By separating personal and professional interests and accounts, applicants can present themselves publicly on social media based on their merits as a potential employee, while still using those same services to explore and engage with personal interests.
Utilize LinkedIn
LinkedIn, a social network focused on job and career information, is an excellent place for students to compile accomplishments related to their desired careers. Sharing information about education and coursework specifically related to the information systems industry, internships, and any other work in this field helps recruiters and human resources. There are also fields that display volunteer work, which, while maybe not directly relevant to an information systems career, is viewed positively by many recruiters, and endorsements. Students can spend time building and developing their LinkedIn profile, both by adding information and seeking out connections and endorsements from those they have worked with or volunteered for in the past. In terms of social media and employment, LinkedIn is a powerful tool that allows job-seekers to present themselves in the best light possible.
Leverage existing connections
Whether on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or another network entirely, there are opportunities to use existing connections to expand a job search and find potential positions. Whether it involves messaging childhood friends who now work in the information systems field or connecting with college classmates who recently graduated, established social networks often provide chances to share information about a job hunt and, in relevant circumstances, reach out for more specific discussions.
Networking only when seeking a job can leave contacts feeling burned out or used, and less willing to reciprocate in the future. By also occasionally checking in with contacts about their own needs or simply to discuss relevant industry issues, students seeking careers in the information systems field can effectively develop long-lasting networks.
Develop new relationships
Adding existing contacts to social media is an effective way to stay involved and up to date about developments in their personal and professional lives. However, there are also opportunities to connect with others in the information systems field and engage about best practices, the future direction of the industry, new and emergent technology, and many other topics. LinkedIn’s Group feature offers an especially relevant opportunity to connect on a professionally focused network and discuss meaningful industry issues, helping to develop occupational knowledge and stay abreast of current events. Making an investment into these groups now means future networking efforts with members of those forums will be more organic and meaningful, as opposed to being seen as an attempt to leverage the group for short-term personal gain.
Follow and engage with businesses
Although businesses themselves only do so much two-way communication through social media, and much of it focuses around customer service and engagement, following companies for hiring updates and other news is an effective strategy. It provides a direct link to the organization’s own efforts to share information and can mean an early opportunity to apply for a relevant job posting. Following these companies can also present opportunities to engage in discussions about information systems and further expand digital networking opportunities, effectively combining social media and employment opportunities.
Partnering with UAB to pursue your information systems education
UAB gives students the future-focused education they need to develop an understanding of the information systems profession that will be relevant as they build their careers in the years to come. Learners seeking an online information systems degree also have the chance to develop powerful professional networks virtually, offering opportunities to network with fellow students and professors alike. When combined with efforts to use social media in a job search, these networks can offer valuable guidance about a variety of companies and positions. They may also provide information about other open roles and help students expand their job hunt. To learn more about UAB’s Bachelor of Science in Information Systems degree, speak to an advisor today.
Recommended Readings:
General Overview: Bachelor of Science in Information Systems
Career Opportunities to Consider With a BS IS
Sources:
UAB Collat School of Business: Bachelor of Science in Information Systems
UAB Collat School of Business: Information Systems
US News & World Report: 10 Smart Ways to Use Social Media in Your Job Search