It's an age of social networks. We shop online, hang out online, do business online. And increasingly, employers are recruiting online, using social networks to research and reach out to attractive candidates. A staggering 90% of recruiters and hiring managers have scoped out social networks to vet a job applicant, according to Mashable. But not all networks are created equal; recruiters are getting savvier about where they turn to attract top talent. And that's where your Net Impact Member Profile really comes in handy.

1. Put yourself in front of the right people.

Remember that New Year’s resolution you made about how you were going to network like crazy to finally land that dream impact job? Try taking it online, where employers like PepsiCo, Teach for America, B Lab, and more can turn for potential candidates. Of course, we all know that existing connections can be an even more effective way to get your foot in the door. Keeping an up-to-date Member Profile ensures fellow Net Impacters know what you’re working on, what your specialties are, and what causes and issues you’re interested in.

2. Keep your digital presence consistent.

With so many networks cropping up these days, it can be a challenge to stay on top of all your profile. But don’t forget to update them regularly lest potential employers wonder about discrepancies – or worse, get the idea that you can’t be bothered with details. While this can be potentially time consuming, there are ways to streamline the process. Keep a running list of all your accounts so you can make updates in batches. And take advantage of social networks that allow you to integrate profiles from major networks – your Net Impact Member Profile, for example, can be easily populated using our simple one-click LinkedIn integration. And definitely take advantage of your other social networks, such as Twitter and Facebook, by linking to them from your Net Impact profile.

3. Don’t just broadcast; participate.

Once you’ve got your online profile set up so everyone can see exactly what you’re great at, what you’re interested in, and what you’re working on, it’s time to kick back and relax, right? Not so fast. Your profile is like a solid handshake, but it’s worthless if you don’t walk up and introduce yourself. Whether you’re exploring the Net Impact community through our Member Directory, the 2013 Net Impact Conference or one of our many career services, or you’re taking it to the rest of the internet on social media, you’ve got to stand up and join the conversation.

“When I hear of something great that has happened to someone that I know," says Idealist.org editor Allison Jones, "I share that with other people, and I send them a personal note and make myself available.” So ask questions. Share your own experiences and advice. Move it and shake it a little. Because one of the best things you can do for your career is to be an active and contributing member in your community, online and off.

Update Your Profile 

Not a member yet? Join our community for free!