Why you should spring clean your online profile

  • 20 April 2022

man smiling while typing on laptop

What do your garage, junk drawer and online profile have in common? They could all use a deep clean this Spring.

While it’s easy to get preoccupied with physical clutter — spring is a great time to think about cleaning up your online profile. Social media and online networking can be powerful tools in career advancement and job hunting, especially during a pandemic. Get started today with these tips from SAIT’s Career Advancement Services.

  1. Clean up your digital presence
    Employers often use automated systems to see if a candidate fits with their company culture. It’s not just about your resumé anymore.
    • Check your social media profiles (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube) to ensure there’s nothing holding you back from making a positive impression.
    • Google search yourself to see what comes up.
    • Delete old profiles and websites that you no longer use.
    • If you wouldn’t want a potential employer to see it, don’t post it!

  2. Make social media work for you
    Social media is more than just fun and games, it’s a great way to connect with companies and brands you’re interested in.
    • Follow companies in your industry and like/share/comment on interesting posts to boost your own presence.
    • Use social media platforms that align to your career goals. Many writers have been discovered on Twitter, and visual artists on Instagram and YouTube.
    • Stay current and active but be mindful of what you post and how often, so your connections don’t tune out.

  3. Grow your skills, not just your network
    Tap into a wealth of online resources to learn new skills. Why not register for a course or learn something new from a video tutorial?
    • Explore virtual courses offered in the evenings and weekends at coned.sait.ca to learn new skills in a way that fits your busy schedule.
    • Plan for your next career move. Scan job postings for the next position you’d like to apply for and identify any gaps between your experience and what employers are seeking.
    • Send an email or message to others in your industry and ask what type of professional development they’ve taken or would recommend.

  4. Sharpen your writing
    Most online communication involves written text such as emails, chat messages, online learning and discussions. Improving your writing will improve your online impression.
    • Think before you write — keep messages professional, meaningful and concise.
    • Break up lengthy text into small chunks for easy reading, and always proofread.
    • Spell out unfamiliar acronyms and avoid technical jargon.
    • Register for SAIT’s Business Writing for Results course and learn writing skills from our industry experts.