Thoughts on Pursuing a Career in Social Media

I've had a few people ask me recently how to get started in social media. Most recently, @busynessstudent tweeted me and specifically asked about how he might get a job at my company, Powered. Since 140 characters was a little limiting, I thought an Utter-cast might be a more appropriate way to share my thoughts.

Now that I'm back at my desk (and not just typing in a couple of brief sentences on my iPhone), I'd like to expound on this idea a little bit. For those chosing not to listen to my utter-cast, here are the three recommendations I made for those looking:

• Make sure you are blogging, Twittering, podcasting and being active on the other main social networks like LinkedIn, Facebook and MySpace.
• Consider doing a video of yourself and clearly articulate what type of job you are lookin for. Also talk about why you would be a good fit at a particular company (and don't just say "because I know how to blog"). Remember to tie your skills into what a business' goals might be like:
  - product development
  - lead generation
  - awareness
  - thought leadership
  - customer support
  - engagement marketing
• Network with EVERYONE you know. However, here's the key. Make sure you package yourself up in a way that makes it easy for others to pass you long. For instance:
  - make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date or create an online resume
  - create a bulleted e-mail that spells out your 5-7 strongest traits and sums you up
  - tell people you've asked to help you EXACTLY which companies you'd like to work for and what you'd like to do - making them guess creates room for complacency on their end

In addition to those three idea, Kipp Bodnar suggests that you should also be commenting on the blogs of the people or companies you would like to work for. This is not only an excellent idea, I've heard of people actually getting hired this way. Another opportunity is to participate regularly in that companies discussion forums (nothing says "I'm useful and know your company" like a little free customer support). Be careful not to be overly critical but also make sure you're not too complementary either 'cause nobody likes a kiss ass.

Doug Haslam recommends that you shouldn't be waiting until you need a job to start networking. I couldn't agree more and in fact, that has been the reason I've always moved seemlessly from job to job in the past. Obviously this doesn't help those of you out there who are already looking but for those that aren't looking, at least not yet, start networking TODAY. For those that are looking, once you land a job make sure you don't forget to keep up those networking activities after you land on your feet.

Anybody else want to chime in? If so, please leave your recommendations in the comments below (or feel free to reply with an utter of your own).

First, thanks to Kipp and Doug for adding some excellent points 

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