Social networks have fundamentally changed communication over the last decade, and the career development and recruitment landscape is no exception. This evolution is evident in how job seekers and employers connect. For career counselors aiming to effectively guide students in today’s digital age, understanding and utilizing social networking tools is crucial. This guide serves as a starting point for career services professionals to explore social media as a vital resource in the job search process and to help students maximize their online opportunities.
This resource is structured around several key areas to provide a comprehensive overview of social networking in career development:
As you explore this guide, consider these important aspects:
The primary aim is to provide a foundational understanding. Social media platforms are dynamic, constantly evolving with new features and profile display changes. To remain effective, career counselors should engage in continuous learning and discussion about social media’s impact on career development. Joining or creating professional communities online is highly recommended for staying updated and exchanging knowledge in this ever-changing digital environment.
While numerous social networks exist, this guide focuses on providing a framework. The goal is to equip career counselors with a strategic approach to advise students on using social media for internships and job searches. This framework can be adapted and applied to virtually any social networking platform, ensuring relevance across different online spaces.
This guide is organized into three core sections: optimizing online profiles, effective networking strategies, and utilizing social media for job and internship discovery. You can explore each section independently or read the guide in its entirety, depending on your specific needs and learning preferences.
Feel free to share this guide widely with colleagues. It is intended to be a collaborative resource to enhance the effectiveness of career services in the digital age.
Content Contributors:
Kevin Grubb
Associate Director, Digital Media and Assessment
Villanova University Career Center
Shannon Conklin
Associate Director of Assessment and Technology
Temple University Career Center
Megan Wolleben
Assistant Director of Student Communications
Bucknell University Career Development Center
Originally Published 2016
