Hannah is a social media specialist at Switched on Media in Sydney — a digital agency focusing on SEO, social media, PPC, content, mobile and display. She works on a range of clients and projects — everything from strategy and monitoring to channel management and working with bloggers.
A little birdie told me you got your job through Twitter? How did that happen?
I had my heart set on moving to Sydney. I had been networking and making connections with people here while I was still living in the states. I was following companies and employees of those companies on Twitter. My now colleague, Phill, tweeted about an opening on the team and I responded saying I was interested. I had a phone interview the week after that, and a second interview about a month later. I got the offer and moved to Sydney three weeks later. So yes, you really can find your job through Twitter.
Why did you decide to move to Australia?
I studied abroad in Australia as an undergrad student and loved it. I did a semester at Bond Uni on the Gold Coast, but I especially loved Sydney when I visited. It makes me sad when I meet people from here who don’t like this city. It’s so beautiful. There is nowhere in the world I’d rather be right now!
Do you think others should copy how you got your job?
It depends on what type of jobs you’re seeking. It’s obviously very relevant for many digital, PR and marketing roles. Our agency typically only recruits our social team positions via social media. It makes sense. We want to see that you can use the tools and are listening in. I would say, don’t limit your job search to just social media, but certainly don’t dismiss the opportunity.
What advice would you give those who are using social media to get a job (or a sponsorship or contacts)?
I’ve blogged about finding your job on Twitter before, it’s not as simple as just signing up for an account. Social media isn’t magic. Twitter is just the tool that allows you to network. Use social media to facilitate connections. Another piece of advice is to make your details accessible and easy to find online. I have my CV on my blog with links to past posts I had written. My contact details are there too. I got an offer to interview before I ever sent my resume. I didn’t need to, my past work experience and credentials are out there.
For bloggers who are looking for sponsorship opportunities, it’s a similar approach. Have a section across the top of your blog header labeled “PR/Advertising” or “Contact Me” or something similar. Be deliberate and up front. Every extra step you add in to the process for people to find you, means less people will actually contact you. List your “blogging credentials” on your blog. This might be readership information, testimonials, links to previous reviews, blog awards and so on, get creative!
What’s the biggest no-no for job seekers using social media?
Some might disagree with me on this, but my advice would be to use some discretion. If you want to work for a company you don’t need to tweet them and say “HEY @COMPANY you should hire me because I’m a really loud voice! Please RT!” I don’t think it reflects well on you as a candidate. Besides, if that role doesn’t work out, you’ve already put this message in a public forum. If you are going for multiple jobs, it could give the appearance you’re desperate or aren’t really passionate about working for one business. Be cool, and don’t draw unnecessary attention to yourself.
How do you think bloggers should interact with PR companies/brands in Twitter?
I’ve had to deal with a few big egos working with bloggers. Luckily, this is not that common or the norm, but it’s probably one of my only pet peeves. I always try to be professional and treat bloggers with the same respect as my coworkers, clients and other work contacts. I expect the same in return. We’re all just people.
Bloggers who really want to get to know PR/marketing peeps can start by doing some research. My advice would be to conduct similar research as agencies do to research bloggers. Get online and start learning about the companies who are working with bloggers, follow brands and account managers online. Start by introducing yourself and sending over your media kit when it makes sense. Have conversations online. Show up to events like Digital Parents Unplugged and meet PR companies face-to-face. The possibilities are endless – it’s about being proactive.
What’s your plan, professionally and personally, in the next five to 10 years?
This is such a tough question. I eventually want to work for myself and that’s in my 10-year plan professionally. Personally, I’d like to be a mum one day. Perhaps in 10 years I’ll be a Digital Parent!
Hannah has a personal blog aptly named Hannah De Milta or you can follow her on twitter @HannahDeMilta
Profile written by MummyK
Switched On Media are holding a Blogger Relations Forum in Sydney on Thursday 8 December 2011 with the aim of discussing the ever growing brand/blogger relationship. Click on the link for more information.
Thanks Hannah, this is really helpful. I’m impressed you got an overseas job via twitter – awesome!
That was excellent Hannah, and very helpful. Thanks too, for the opportunity to have bloggers come together to talk more. It IS about making the connections, and in an appropriate way, isn’t it? Sorry I can’t make Thursday now, but I wish you and the team well! Denyse