Facebook and Professional Networking

If you do decide to use the social networking sites for professional networking, here are some suggestions on how best to utilize it:

·         First, make a decision whether to keep Facebook social or expand your use.

·         If you decide to use Facebook for professional networking, take a close look at your Profile and decide what you want business contacts or prospective employers to see - and what you don't.

·         Create a simple profile (or clean up with your existing one) with minimal graphics and widgets.

·         Limit the photos you post.

·         Post content relevant to your job search or career.

·         Use Facebook email to build relationships with your Friends.

·         Choose your Friends wisely. Remember your Friends may be able to see information about your other Friends in your Profile.

Finally, "To be taken professionally, be very, very careful what you share with the world (remember 'The Emperor Has No Clothes' story). People seem to forget that everyone can see what you’re really not wearing."