June 30 is recognized as Social Media Day, celebrating its impact on global communication and our everyday lives. However, social media is also a powerful tool for immigrants in Canada to expand their professional network and build their careers. Miguel Abascal, Founder and President, Unstoppableme.rocks, shares how immigrants can leverage social media to its full potential.

Social media can be a powerful tool for showcasing your experience, skills, and knowledge while building meaningful connections and providing value to your network. Here are three steps to effectively leverage social media in your job search:

1. Boost your online presence: Over 65% of Canadian companies screen applicants through social media. It’s essential to ensure your online presence reflects your professionalism and aligns with your career goals. A recent article highlights that 40% of employers have made hiring decisions based on candidates’ social media profiles.
2. Confidence and clarity: When searching for your ideal job, confidence is your best ally. It’s crucial to be confident in yourself and your abilities when sharing your thoughts and ideas on social media. Additionally, clarity plays a significant role. Define what you’re looking for and communicate it clearly.
3. Build your personal brand: Consider the three key things you want people to think or remember about you. Crafting your personal brand around these attributes will help you stand out. And when communicating your value, remember that stories are powerful. Share anecdotes or experiences that highlight your skills and achievements. Stories resonate with others and make your message more impactful.

One of the biggest advantages of social media is its effectiveness in finding informational interview, particularly for immigrants looking to build their professional networks. LinkedIn is my go-to site for devising a strategy to connect with people and request informational interviews. Think of an informational interview as a muscle that gets stronger with practice. Start by leveraging your existing network before branching out. While it is possible to reach out to strangers, the chances of success increase when you tap into the connections of your connections. Networking on LinkedIn can open doors to valuable conversations and insights.

You can also join the TRIEC PINs association Unstoppableme.rocks., I founded UnstoppableMe.rocks to help people connect with each other. It is a private community that fosters support and connection in a safe environment. This platform is an excellent place to connect with like-minded individuals and expand your network. By joining this community, you can meet awesome people who are also on their professional journeys, and together, you can provide support and networking opportunities for each other.

Navigating the social media landscape as an immigrant professional can be challenging, but also a lot of fun. Keep these tips in mind as you leverage these platforms effectively and stand out:

• Be authentic, be YOU: Embrace your unique story and perspective as an immigrant professional. Share your journey, your challenges, and your triumphs. Authenticity resonates with others and can help you build genuine connections.
• Cultivate your digital brand: Your social media presence is your digital brand. Take the time to curate a professional profile that reflects your expertise, accomplishments, and aspirations. Craft a captivating summary, highlight your skills, and showcase your projects. Be intentional with the content you share, ensuring it aligns with your professional goals and values.
• Provide value to others: Social media is not just about self-promotion; it’s also an opportunity to provide value to others. Share insightful articles, industry news, or helpful resources that can benefit your professional network. Be generous with your knowledge and expertise by offering tips, advice, and solutions to common challenges. By consistently providing value, you establish yourself as a valuable resource and trusted authority in your field.
• Seek out and participate in industry discussions: Join industry-specific groups or communities where professionals in your field gather. Contribute to discussions, share your expertise, and ask questions. Actively participating in these conversations helps you stay updated on industry trends and showcase your knowledge in your field.
• Harness the power of storytelling: As an immigrant professional, your story is a powerful tool for making meaningful connections. Share your experiences, triumphs, and lessons learned through compelling storytelling. By connecting with others on a personal level, you create empathy and build relationships that can lead to valuable collaborations or job opportunities.

Social media is not just a tool for job searching; it’s a platform to showcase your value, connect with others, and shape your professional identity. Embrace the opportunities it offers, stay true to yourself, and inspire others with your unique journey. Your determination, resilience, and diverse perspective are assets that can propel you towards career success in your new home. Happy networking!

Visit https://unstoppableme.rocks/ to find out more about Unstoppableme.rocks. For more information about the TRIEC Professional Immigrant Networks (PINs) program, visit https://triec.ca/pins.