Search for jobs more efficiently with social media

Ziza Madani:
Are you looking for a new job? Then you can really benefit from the opportunities on social media. We guide you on how to make your job search smoother using social media and share our best tips on using digital channels to secure your next job.

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Ziza:
Welcome to the New in Sweden podcast. A podcast where we explain, give tips, and offer good advice on job hunting and working in Sweden. The podcast is for those who are new to the country. The title of today's episode is “Search for Jobs More Efficiently with Social Media”. Today, we'll tell you how to find a job on social media. In the studio, there’s me, Ziza Madani, and my colleague Pär Axelsson, and we both work here at the Swedish Public Employment Service. Pär, have you ever applied for a job through social media?

Pär Axelsson:
No, Ziza. I'm quite unsure how to get started.

Ziza:
Okay, but which social media platforms do you use the most?

Pär:
Mostly Facebook, I'd say, but also Instagram. What about you?

Ziza:
I'd say Instagram and TikTok...

Pär:
Mhm… TikTok. I haven't dared to try that. I've heard many get stuck scrolling for hours...

Ziza:
Yes, that's true, and it happens with many apps. But you know what's so great about social media?

Pär:
No, tell me.

Ziza:
It's that there are so many job opportunities there.

Pär:
Yes, you're right. And since you already have your phone in your hand, you can take the opportunity to search for jobs. Often, you might get stuck on social media, news, and contacts from other countries, in other languages. But it's essential to stay informed about Swedish news and the job market. Do you want to explain how to get started?

Ziza:
Yes. If we talk about, for example, Facebook, you can join groups. Groups like "Jobs in Stockholm" or in your specific area. But there are also groups focused on certain professions. Just go to Facebook. In the search bar, filter to groups, then type in your profession, and see what groups pop up.

Pär:
Okay, so you're a journalist at heart. Which groups can you join?

Ziza:
There are several, so I just search for "journalist" and see what comes up. Once in the group, I can post if I'm looking for a job, but I can also see when employers post that they are hiring. So, if you're, for example, a chef, welder, carpenter, or nursing assistant, try typing that in.

Pär:
This group thing is good. I've seen many people post on their profiles, like: "Hi, my name is Pär, and I'm now looking for new challenges. I'm looking for a job in education, as a recreational leader, so if you know of any vacant positions, get in touch." Quite straightforward.

Ziza:
That's an excellent example, Pär. Exactly, because then your friends and followers can offer tips and ideas if they know something. Networking is so important.

Pär:
And for you, who also use Instagram, how do you search for a job there?

Ziza:
I usually do three things. First, I post a story or a post saying that I'm looking for a job. Second, I search through hashtags, like “#jobvacancy” or “#jobsinstockholm”. Many posts from companies pop up that way.

Pär:
Okay, that sounds good. So, when you make a post, your friends and followers help you. And otherwise, you see what companies have posted through hashtags. But what's the third thing you do?

Ziza:
I follow the companies I want to work for. Often, companies choose to advertise only on their social media, so I'm quick to send in my application. It reduces the competition.

Pär:
Smart. I've become quite active on LinkedIn recently. Here, employers, employees, and job seekers gather. Employers try to find employees, and job seekers share when they're looking for a job. Those who already have a job are usually there to share thoughts and positive work experiences.

Ziza:
Then you don't have to feel uncomfortable about writing that you're looking for a job, right?

Pär:
No, not at all. That's the advantage of LinkedIn. People there are willing to help each other. Another thing is that you can directly create connections and become friends with employers you want to work for. Then you can write and tell them who you are and what you want to work with. You can even mention in your profile picture that you're looking for a job so employers can see it – and maybe contact you.

Ziza:
That's great. And you're on top of this, Pär, right?

Pär:
Not as much as you are. But, well, I know a bit. When you create a LinkedIn profile, you enter your education, work history, and if, for example, you've had internships. It's like your CV. Then you can go to LinkedIn's own job search site and look for jobs there. Many job ads have a button called “Easy Apply”, so you apply for the job directly through your profile.

Ziza:
So, you don't need to use a CV and cover letter?

Pär:
No, exactly, it happens straight through the app. Super smooth and fast. I really want to recommend those who don't have LinkedIn to download the app and create a profile. It's free, and you have nothing to lose by trying.

Ziza:
So, to summarize a bit, you can use your social media for more than just entertainment. You can get help from friends and family, join groups, check hashtags, and then also use LinkedIn.

Pär:
Yes, exactly, and one more thing: dare to try what you haven't tried before. Sometimes you need to do something new and different to get different results.

Ziza:
You’re absolutely right. And you know what? Those were such good closing words, so I think we'll end it here. Thank you very much for listening to us today. And if you want to know more about social media, search for it on arbetsformedlingen.se/play. There, you can find videos, webinars, and podcasts on various topics. Good luck, and we'll talk to you again.

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speaker:
You have been listening to the New in Sweden podcast by Arbetsförmedlingen. You can find all previous episodes at arbetsformedlingen.se/play. If you have any questions, tips, or ideas, please e-mail us at podcast@arbetsformedlingen.se. This episode was produced in the summer of 2024.