Employers often, even though there are ethical questions about snooping on candidates, spend time checking out candidates to find out as much as possible about them.
That's why it's important to make sure that your privacy settings are adjusted appropriately on Facebook and all the information you have online when you're job searching is appropriate for public consumption.
Don't forget that you can turn the tables and do the exact same thing and research companies, your interviewers, your prospective boss, and your future co-workers. The more information you have, the better equipped you'll be to interview and to start a new job.
Social networking sites have a wealth of information and it's easy to use social networking to boost your job search. Check the company LinkedIn Profile, where you'll see who works at the company. You'll then be able to view the public LinkedIn Profiles of employees and detailed Profiles of the people you are connected to.
For example, take a look at About.com's Company Profile. There is information on the company, on present and past employees, new hires and promotions, along with current job openings. When you click on a job opening, you'll see related openings at other companies, which is a great way to expand your job search.
Check, as well, the company's Facebook Page, if they have one. That's another good way to find more information. GEICO, for example, has a Facebook Page specifically for those interested in GEICO Careers. You can connect with a company recruiter, view current job openings, see a list of upcoming job fairs, and get lots of information on working at GEICO.
Follow the company and employees on Twitter to stay on top of company news. Use SimplyHired to see who you know on Facebook and LinkedIn at companies of interest. Talk to them to see if they can help you get an interview, give you a reference, or give you insight into the hiring process and the company culture.
The more information you have, the better positioned you'll be to job search and it's quick and easy to find what you need to know to help ace an interview, to use your connections to help you job search, and to make decisions on job offers online.
Related: Top 10 Social Networking Tips | Top Social Networking Sites
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