Students across the county have recently started their courses at university or college and even though their work has just begun, it’s never too soon to plan for a career beyond your studies.
Social media plays an increasingly more influential role in our lives and as its use continues to grow the opportunities, and pitfalls, are becoming more apparent.
A positive approach to your online presence can help when it comes to applying for jobs as employers can use social media sites to find out more about people who have applied for jobs. Conversely, an account which reflects badly could work against you as ill-advised posts and embarrassing pictures remain online for others to see.
Robert Gordon University (RGU) has recently re-launched its award-winning Right Click campaign to encourage and support positive use of social media channels across campus. Timed to coincide with the latest intake of first year students, the web-based campaign provides advice and guidance on responsible use of social media channels including Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
RGU careers consultant Lorraine Amies meets regularly with students to discuss their future career plans and recommends they review their own social media presence.
She said: “In what is already a very competitive jobs market it’s important students become more social media savvy and consider their online profile when it comes to starting their careers.
“Social media is not only about staying connected with friends and family but is also a two-way street for employers and those seeking employment. Many students look online for company information and the same can be said for employers when they are recruiting. It’s worth bearing in mind that social media accounts can reveal more about you than you realise.
“The university’s Right Click campaign will help raise awareness of this and provide guidance so students can make the most of their online presence which will benefit them in the long-run.”
Earlier this year RGU also launched an online careers education resource called My Career Toolkit. Advice is available to students, via a Social Media Savvy topic, to make the most of their social media accounts to support their employability.
Lorraine said: “You may wish to use social media to advocate that you are the correct person for the job. It’s worth creating professional accounts which showcase your interest in your subject area. Many students now also have blogs which are a great way of demonstrating experience and evidencing any work you have accomplished in the subject area.”
As part of each social media review students are also advised to create a LinkedIn account as early as possible and grow their network by inviting colleagues and professionals to join.
Lorraine said: “You can use LinkedIn in a variety of ways to support your career planning. A key area to start with is to find out what graduates of your course are doing now. This will highlight the range of career opportunities which are potentially available to you. Many companies also highlight their summer internships on their account which allows you to be ahead of the game and gain relevant industry work experience before you’ve even finished your course.
“The site is also a good way to find out about employer events which give you the chance to network and also find out about company. This can increase your commercial awareness which is a key skill employers are looking for in graduates during the recruitment process.”
For more information on RGU’s award-winning Right Click social media campaign, visit: www.rgu.ac.uk/rightclick
