How to Manage Your Social Media to Boost Your Career Prospects

In today’s job market, your social media presence can be just as important as your CV. For many employers and recruiters, it’s the first impression they have of you. Whether you’re applying for a corporate role, a creative position, or your first job out of school, your online presence plays a big part in shaping your professional brand. The good news? With a few simple tweaks, you can turn your social platforms into a powerful tool that helps you land your next opportunity.

Audit and Protect Your Digital Footprint

The first step is to take control of what others see. Start by searching your own name online to see what comes up – and then ask yourself, “Would I be happy if a hiring manager saw this?” If the answer is no, take action to remove or hide any old content that could be misinterpreted. Adjust your privacy settings on personal accounts like Facebook or Instagram and consider locking down anything you wouldn’t want to explain in a job interview.

Security is just as important. Make sure your accounts are protected with strong, unique passwords and use two-factor authentication wherever possible. It’s not just about avoiding being hacked – it’s about showing employers you take your professional reputation seriously.

Build a Strong Personal Brand

Your social media should tell a consistent story about who you are, what you do, and where you’re headed. This is especially important on LinkedIn, where recruiters often search for candidates with specific skills or interests. Make sure your headline is more than just your job title – use it to showcase what you’re passionate about. A well-written summary, recent experience, and a touch of personality can go a long way.

In 2025, many candidates are also using tools like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, or other platforms to complete micro-credentials – and then proudly displaying their digital badges online. This is a smart move, particularly in a competitive market. It shows you’re proactive, curious, and always learning – exactly the kind of qualities employers are looking for. You can read more in our article on maximising LinkedIn in 2025.

Keep it Engaging and Professional

A polished profile is important, but so is engagement. Sharing relevant articles, commenting thoughtfully on industry topics, and joining professional groups online helps build your reputation – and keeps your name visible to potential employers. You don’t have to be an influencer; simply showing that you’re connected to your industry and take interest in your field is enough to stand out.

Don’t Forget the Other Platforms

While LinkedIn remains the key platform for most job seekers, it’s not the only one that matters. Recruiters sometimes check Instagram, Facebook, or even TikTok to get a broader picture of who you are. Think of it as an extension of your personal brand. If you’re using social platforms creatively – maybe you’ve made videos about your industry, shared tips from your studies, or documented a personal project – that can all work in your favour. Just be sure anything public aligns with how you want to be seen professionally.

Balance Personality with Privacy

Finally, remember that employers aren’t just looking for qualifications – they’re looking for cultural fit, communication skills, and professionalism. That means it’s okay to show some personality on social media, but avoid content that could be seen as offensive, divisive, or overly negative. AI-powered screening tools are increasingly used by employers to review candidates’ online presence, so maintaining a respectful and balanced tone is more important than ever.

The Bottom Line

Your online presence is a valuable asset in your job search – but only if it’s working for you, not against you. A few hours spent updating your LinkedIn, tidying your public posts, and sharing content that reflects your interests and strengths can make a real difference in how you’re perceived. In a competitive market, where employers often receive dozens (if not hundreds) of applications for each role, this extra layer of polish can help you stand out.

Adecco is here to help every step of the way. Check out our article on balancing work and wellbeing to help you stay focused during your job search – or if you’re new to the workforce, our complete guide to temping is a great starting point for gaining experience and building your brand.