Have you jumped on the social media train? Or are you still on the platform, not sure what to do or how to begin? No worries — we’re still early on.

The internet continues to transform the way people live and how businesses operate, including ours: recruiting, search and human capital management.

Social media enables branding, broadcasting and engagement capabilities.  When done right, the potential pay-off could be huge. 

Build your network and your brand with these six steps:

1. Secure your vanity name on all social media sites. The ‘Big Three’ are LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook. For a full list, Google: [Social Media Websites]. Do this quickly, before another person obtains your name. If your name is gone, a nickname or pseudonym could work. Choose your ‘handle’ with your audience in mind.

2. Write a professional bio. You might have two bios; a shorter one 50-100 words and a longer one 200-300 words. Include your accomplishments, a professional photo ‘avatar’ and contact info. When writing your bio, think about your unique background and a broad audience. For help, review other people’s bios and/or Google: [How to Write a Professional Bio].

3. Learn how the social media sites work. Each has their own how-to page. Visit the sites. Observe, listen and watch what others do and how they’re interacting. If a friend or colleague is an active user, ask for help. You might also Google: [How to Use Social Media Sites].

4. Build your networks. On LinkedIn, send ‘Please join my professional network’. On Facebook, send ‘Be my friend’ messages. On Twitter, follow people who seem interesting to you. Many will follow back.

5. Join the conversation. Post what’s going on in your life. You might find something interesting or have something in common (work life, travel, food, sports, politics, etc). Post a comment or respond. Engage others by asking questions, for example, ‘Do you…?’ or ‘How do you…?’

6. Link your networks. Most social media sites have areas to connect other sites. This enables ‘networking leverage’. By connecting your total network, you will maximise your reach and build your brand.

Social media takes an investment in time, similar to building relationships with clients and candidates. Keep in mind the two parts: ‘social’ and ‘media’. Both should be integral to your marketing strategy and incorporated into daily/weekly activities.

It’s been said, LinkedIn is like going to the office, Facebook is like going home and Twitter is like going to the bar. So, hope to see you at the party. 

Mike Ramer, CPC, CSP, is founder and president of Ramer Search Consultants in the New York area. Mike is an international trainer for the search and recruitment industry. He designed ‘The Art of Search’ © training programmes, which he presents at industry events, conferences and recruiting firms worldwide. For more about Mike’s training and his blog ‘Recruiting in New World’ visit  www.RamerGroup.com or email him at [email protected]. Connect with him on LinkedIn, Facebook and follow him on Twitter: @MikeRamer.