Are You Job Hunting? What Will Employers Find When They Google You?

Online social media is a fantastic tool for job hunting. controversial religious/political comments.  It's still a
The Big 3 (LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter) each havepublic forum, and you really don't know who might end
their own unique style that you can utilize in differentup seeing something you've said, even if you're trying
ways for your job search.  But while you're workingto be careful of your privacy.
these sites to land the perfect medical sales job,- Twitter: Twitter is a terrific place to be in the
employers and recruiters are looking for you, too. conversation on just about anything.  Again, watch
And if you get their attention in the early stages of thewhat you say.  Keep it professional.  Ask questions,
job interview process, they're going to be activelyand try to help others.  An employer will be impressed
searching for more details about you.  According towith someone who's engaged and relevant.
one survey, 70% of hiring managers and recruiters- Show up in unexpected places:  In addition to
have rejected an applicant based on what they foundinteracting on the social sites, think about writing a
online. Have you Googled your name lately to seeguest post for a relevant blog, or start your own. 
what they'll find out about you?Comment on other writers' articles with something of
You can manage your online identity to control yourvalue.  Think about contributing to medical/healthcare
reputation and your image in the job market in these 5laboratory presentations at conferences.  Newsletters
ways:or other publications aimed at laboratory work, medical
- LinkedIn: Take the time to set up a professionaldevice, or other health care industry areas would be
LinkedIn profile, join some groups, and get active. great.
LinkedIn is the primary business networking site for- Be consistent: Get a professional photo (it doesn't
professionals.  It's a tremendously powerful resourcehave to be professionally done; it should just be a
for you to research companies, keep tabs on theformal, businesslike pose) and use that photo every
hidden job market, and contact hiring managers abouttime a photo is called for.  Make sure your name is
jobs.   A well-crafted LinkedIn profile will showcaseconsistently written so that it shows up in a search.
your job history, your skills, and your recommendations.Ultimately, you decide how people will see you.  Since
- Facebook: Although this can be a great, casual placeyou know they'll be looking, be proactive.  Make sure
to network socially, it's important that you don't get toothey see the confident, competent professional they
comfortable.  No trashy pictures, bad language, or anywant to hire.