More synonymous with pokes and keeping in touch with aunts, uncles and your old classmates, Facebook isn’t always the first platform that comes to mind when we think of forwarding our careers. However, as the old saying goes, it’s not what you have, it’s how you use it. Plus, with Facebook clocking in 5 new profiles created globally every second, the platform is still growing. So while you’re spending time checking in on friends, families and acquaintances, here are a few practical tips to help use Facebook to get you on the path to a brighter future.

 

Clean It Out

 

Although Facebook does allow you to tweak what visitors are allowed to see, the best policy is to remove anything potential employers may deem lude or inappropriate. This doesn’t mean censoring yourself completely, but having a sense of discretion with what you show is important. You can still show your personality, keeping in mind that a reported 90% of recruiters check Facebook profiles as they’re looking at potential candidates

 

Share Quality Content

 

Social media is merely a reflection of what you deem important. Keeping this in mind, knowing what to post is important. Try to look for photos, comments and statuses that show your personality, your interest and most importantly what you’re aiming to do in life. New content is constantly being posted online, so timing is crucial. The website reports that Facebook’s most active time is 1 to 3PM on Thursdays and Fridays.

 

Connect With Your “Future” Coworkers

 

Another common adage goes “dress for the job you want, not the job you have.” Keep that same attitude when looking for people you’d like to work with, and the work environment you’d enjoy to be in. It never hurts to reach out to people with a private message introducing yourself and trying to learn more about what they do, as long as it’s done in a respectable manner. People love doing business with people they can learn from and they trust. 

 

Use Facebook Jobs

 

The reassuring fact when looking for jobs is that companies are constantly looking for talented individuals as much as you’re looking for a better work environment. There are over 80 million businesses listed on Facebook. When they post statuses, try commenting and even being straightforward about what you could bring to their establishment. If you consistently set aside just an hour a week reaching out to businesses, you’ll surprise yourself with the results.