Read again: How to use social media to find a job

Moving schools is a difficult time for any SBL. The prep work starts long before you waltz through that door, full of ideas only to discover the budget doesn’t quite work. Finding and acquiring your next role can be full of challenges. And while most of us have a love-hate relationship with social media, Laura Williams proves it can be a powerful tool in your SBL toolbox

I confess to spending more time on social media than I probably should, but in between the F1 gossip and Mrs. Hinch’s farm updates, I find it a genuinely good place to engage with the SBL community, network with others in the sector and develop new connections.

If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to ‘getting your network on’ in the name of job hunting, here are some great easy-to-action things you can do:

• Your wide array of skills and talents should not be relegated to a small box on an application form. Whip up a quick, professional-looking CV on LinkedIn, or, if you’ve got the skills, make a quick and simple website that you can point people to in your social media bio. It shows initiative, makes sure people have easy access to the info they need, and shows off your tech skills all in one!
• Do a social media audit. What does your social media profile say about you? Depending on what you use it for currently, it’s a good time to do a quick sweep; delete, hide or tidy up as needed!
• Google yourself. Yep, seriously! Open up a private tab and Google yourself to see what comes up. You’d rather know than not know right?

Now you’ve got your social media house in order, it’s time to move on to proactive job searches. Before you sign up to endless email alerts from recruitment firms, give these a go to see if you get what you need.

• Search LinkedIn jobs. You would be amazed how many jobs are now posted on LinkedIn. I did a quick search while I was writing this article and I found roles for School Business Managers, School Directors, Deputy Business Managers, School Administrators and more. Tinker with the settings till you like what you see and then set up email alerts so you can tick it off as done.
• Join relevant groups and pages. There are so many fantastic groups out there that have potential opportunities. It might be tempting to stay safe in SBL groups only and while I am a big fan of these groups, more generalised school leadership groups are more likely to have job posts. Plus, if you engage in conversation regularly, Heads may notice too!
• Get in on the conversation. If something big is trending in the school sector, having your say in an informed and professional way will get you noticed. This could be as simple as reposting news with your comments, but if you really want to step into the spotlight, you could try speaking at an event or writing an article. (Get in touch with me – [email protected] if you’d like to speak at EdExec Live or write for us!)

Whether you’re looking for your first SBL role or want a fresh opportunity, your social media can help you to get seen for all the right reasons.