Whether you’re actively job hunting or simply exploring your next career move, using social media for job hunting can be a powerful way to support your journey. Beyond just networking, it offers valuable insights into company culture, recruitment trends, and industry news, all in real time.
From following potential employers and engaging with thought leaders, to researching roles and preparing for interviews, social media gives you a front-row seat to what’s happening across your chosen field.
According to The Graduate Market in 2024 by High Fliers, a huge 96% of the UK’s top graduate recruiters are using social media to spot and connect with fresh talent. That means having a smart, strategic presence online—and knowing how to use these platforms to your advantage—can make a real difference in standing out and finding the right role.
Get Your Social Media Footprint Ready Before You Start Your Search
Before diving into job applications, take some time to review and refresh your LinkedIn profile and any other social media platforms you use professionally. Make sure your experience, skills, and overall presence are up to date, and that your profile photo presents you in a professional, approachable light. While you’re at it, check your privacy settings on each platform.
Consider what a potential employer might see if they were to search your name; would you be happy with what they’d find? Take a moment to review your public posts, tagged photos, and shared content across all platforms. A little digital housekeeping can help ensure your social media footprint supports the professional image you want to portray.
A Note on Secure Job Searching
When searching for a job, it’s crucial to protect your personal information. Never disclose private details in response to a job advertisement or include sensitive information such as your National Insurance number, driving license number, passport number, or bank details on your CV. These pieces of information are not necessary for an initial job application and can expose you to identity theft and fraud if they fall into the wrong hands. Always be cautious about where you share your information and ensure you’re applying through secure, legitimate channels.
Finding a Job Through LinkedIn
Millions of jobs are posted on LinkedIn every single day, whether through personal profiles, company updates, or via the dedicated Jobs feature. If you’re actively looking for opportunities, try searching for posts that mention “hiring” or related hashtags like #NowHiring or #Hiring. You can also look out for the purple “I’m hiring” frame on profile pictures; it’s a helpful visual cue that someone is recruiting and may be open to direct approaches or networking conversations.
To access active vacancies, click the ‘Jobs’ icon at the top of your LinkedIn homepage. You can search by keywords, job title, skill, or company name directly from the search bar or browse through suggested job roles tailored to your qualifications and experience.
Use filters to narrow down the results based on your preferences, and don’t forget to set job alerts by toggling the Set Alert switch to keep informed of the latest opportunities.
There are two types of job postings on LinkedIn:
- Easy Apply: This allows you to apply directly through LinkedIn with a few clicks.
- Apply: Redirects you to the company or third-party website for application.
While LinkedIn’s Easy Apply feature can save time, it’s best to avoid relying on it alone, as it often leads to a high volume of applicants and gives you less opportunity to tailor your application. Instead, take the time to research the company and role, tailor your CV to highlight the most relevant experience, and—if possible—apply directly via the company’s website. You can also reach out to the hiring manager or recruiter on LinkedIn with a personalised message to express your interest and make a more memorable impression. This extra effort can set you apart in a crowded application pool.
Using AI in Your LinkedIn Job Search
Premium LinkedIn subscribers can access to advanced AI tools designed to enhance the job search and application process.
Features include AI-driven job application feedback, advanced cover letter assistance, and the ability to conduct conversational searches for open roles.
LinkedIn also offers personalised AI-driven career coaching and new courses added weekly to LinkedIn Learning, focusing on major tech shifts, including over 800 AI-related courses.
How to Search for Jobs on X (Twitter)
X, formerly known as Twitter, has expanded its offerings with X Hiring, a job search function now accessible to all users after its beta launch last August. Initially available only to verified organisations, X aims to position itself as a direct rival to LinkedIn and other job search platforms like Indeed and Monster.
X Hiring allows users to search for jobs by keywords or location and includes options to filter for remote-only roles. Notably, job listings that provide salary ranges display this information prominently, aligning with growing demands for pay transparency in job postings.
Using Facebook Groups to source opportunities
Facebook groups are a goldmine for job seekers. They often host a community of like-minded professionals and can be a source of job listings, networking opportunities, and career advice.
For social media marketers, the following groups can be especially beneficial:
- Social Media, Marketing & PR Jobs: This group has grown from focusing solely on social media roles to include a wide array of marketing gigs, adapting as the industry evolves. It’s a fantastic spot for anyone eager to boost their career, offering a friendly community where every post is carefully curated for relevance and quality.
- Liz Gadd’s Marketing & PR Jobs: If you’re in marketing, PR, communications, social media, or digital, (or want to get into those areas), you’ll definitely want to check out this Facebook group. Not only can you share and discover job openings, but you also gain access to a team of expert recruiters and career coaches ready to help you navigate your career path.
- Remote Marketing Jobs: If remote work is what you’re after, especially in the marketing field, there’s a fantastic Facebook group that caters specifically to this niche. It’s an ideal resource for those seeking flexibility in their careers. Every job posted is a paid position, ensuring quality and professionalism in the listings.
Welcome to #CareerTok: TikTok’s Fresh Take on Career Advice for Gen Z
TikTok has also become a fantastic resource for career guidance, especially for Gen Z. With nearly 1.5 billion views of the #CareerTok hashtag, TikTok is becoming a preferred spot for professional advice, especially for Gen Z job seekers. (This is also important to note if you are seeking to attract Gen Z talent!)
On TikTok, you’ll find everything from interview tips and cover letter strategies to salary negotiation techniques. The platform’s approach to career advice is serious in content but fresh and engaging in style – perfect for an upcoming workforce that values figuring out job insecurity and economic shifts, making the community and support found here even more valuable.
Gen Z also value transparency, and TikTok creators deliver by sharing real, relatable job-hunting experiences. Creators like Lauren Spearman and Kennie Bukky highlight the realities of job searching today, such as the lack of feedback and transparency around salaries, striking a chord with many users.
Using Social Media to Research Companies and Strengthen Your Job Application
Following a company’s social media accounts – across platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and even TikTok – can significantly enhance your application and interview preparation. These channels often give a behind-the-scenes look at company culture, values, and the tone of their brand voice. You’ll also see updates on news, product launches, events, and recruitment opportunities.
Pay close attention to the content they share: how do they present themselves? What kind of language and visuals do they use? How do they engage with their audience? This can provide valuable insight into what it might be like to work there and help you decide if the organisation aligns with your values and career goals.
If you’re applying for roles in marketing, communications, or social media, this becomes even more important. Demonstrating an understanding of their recent campaigns or platform strategy in your application or interview can help you stand out. Referencing a specific campaign or post not only shows you’ve done your homework, it highlights your ability to analyse and contribute meaningfully to their future efforts.
Don’t forget to explore the LinkedIn Life tab on company pages too. It’s a dedicated space where organisations share employee stories, workplace initiatives, and culture highlights—perfect for gathering real-world insights to support a tailored and informed application.
Take the Next Step in Your Job Search with Expert Support
Whether it’s preparing for specific interview questions or preparing for an interview task, I’m here to help you succeed in landing your dream marketing job!
Ensure you stay up-to-date with changes in social media by subscribing to regular email updates, and consider a webinar or workshop if you need to update or refresh your skills. If you’re preparing for an interview task, complete this form for free support. I can also put you in touch with career coaches and profile writing services to ensure your application stands out and you’re fully prepared for every step of your job search.