What not to do in social-networking when job hunting

So you’ve got a social-network profile or two and want to maximize their use for your job search? Here are the essentials you should know to keep your social etiquette in line with job hunting smarts.

  1. Don’t Overshare. Friends, networking pals and potential recruiters will grow weary of too many tweets or status updates, especially if they are auto-updates from your Mafia Wars or Farmville escapades.
  2. Don’t be “Template.” Try to customize your profile as much as you can. Don’t add animations and blinking gif animations, but do tell your story; be unique.
  3. Don’t under-update. A lack of activity can be just as detrimental as over-updating. Be sure to have some current updates in your news feed. Use them strategically, especially if you’re actively seeking a new career. Choose your updates and conversations wisely.
  4. Don’t add phony friends.  Grow your network carefully.  Understand your goals and the networking group with whom you’re affiliated.  Who you’re connected to on LinkedIn may vary widely from your connections on Facebook.
  5. Don’t auto-DM.  Personal updates and direct messages are far more powerful than setting up an automatic response.  Followers will appreciate the personal attention and won’t feel like you’re spamming them.

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