Is Your Resume Social Media Optimized?

Mallory Scudder | @MalloryScudder Gone are the days when the only contact information needed on your resume are a phone number and email. With LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook becoming more and more important to every aspect of our lives, employers are beginning to look at how “connected” we are in the world of social media.

It has been known for some time now that when applying for a job employers like to take a peek at your personal social media platforms to see what you’re really all about. They look to see what you post, the sort of photos you're captured in, who your friends are, and most importantly, how professional you seem. Basically, they want to feel like they know the “real” you before reaching out to you for an interview.

If you really want your resume to “wow” future employers and stand out from the piles of other resumes they receive, add your social media platforms to it. Not only does this tell the employers that you are connected in the world of social media, but it also says, “Hey, here are the social media platforms I’m on, I have nothing to hide and I’d love for you to come check me out.”

At the top of your resume it would be helpful to add your Twitter handle next to your name, phone number, address and other contact information. If you’re submitting your resume virtually, hyperlink your Twitter handle so they can get easy access to your page.

To add an extra visual, include the social media icons of the platforms that you are on. If you’re handing out paper versions of your resume, this won’t immediately link them to your profiles, but it will let them know which social channels to look for you on.

Also, it's a good idea to include a link to your website or blog. Giving prospective employers the web address to your website or blog means that you’re providing them with more information than what is just on your resume, while also giving you a leg up on the competition.

Keep in mind that although your resume should be social media optimized, it shouldn't look cluttered. Keep it simple and basic. You want to let them know that you're on social media platforms, not on a social media frenzy. Include only the platforms that matter: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and your blog and/or websites are a must have. Other sites like Pinterest, YouTube and Instagram are less imperative, but depending on your career industry, you may want to add them as well.