Targeting Candidates on Twitter

Lately I’ve had numerous MATRIX recruiters come and ask for tips on targeting a specific type of candidate on Twitter.

First, I remind them is that Twitter is not an “all you” media. Meaning, don’t expect to put a job out there, and in return have numerous qualified candidates immediately contact you.

Social Media, and specifically Twitter, is just that, Social. It helps to build those relationships, that then could turn into placements, or referrals from those you’ve connected with.

At any rate, I do think there is a science to finding your exact target audience on Twitter. I’m sure most of you reading this could expand on my tips, but here’s just a few to get you started.

Let’s say you are looking for Java Developers in the Chicago area.

The first place I go is to Google. Reason: I want to connect with java pros in my area. So, I typically I run a  search like “Java User Groups, Chicago”

That then gets me a list of active user groups that specialize in Java, again that are local.

From there, I start digging. Going into each user group site and looking for signs of life on Twitter.

First I check to see if the User Group has a “corporate” Twitter account. That way I can stay in contact with the meeting dates and any news from their group.

Then, I look to see who’s following their group. Most of the time you will come across professionals that attend the user group, and other times you will find other recruiters. Either way, get connected with them.

Then digg deeper. Remember you’re trying to “connect” with their community. So, find some of the most active Twitter users in that group and see who’s following them.

I found this Java guy (blurred his name because I don’t have permission) and saw he has thousands of followers. Take a few minutes and peruse through who he’s following. Any other java pros that he’s connected with? If so, connect with them.

Lastly, pay attention to their conversations. Are they talking about an upcoming event? Does that event have a hastag i.e. #ChicagoJavaConf? See who’s talking within that community and connect with them.

Before long, you will have a solid list of targeted Chicago (potential) Java candidates.

In my next post, I’ll discuss your next step: Engaging them in conversation.

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How to add to the conversation

“Adam, I just don’t know what to write about.”

I hear that all the time from colleagues or friends that are on the fence about blogging, but haven’t jumped into the pool yet.  When I sit down with them to plot out some ideas, I usually begin by encouraging them to setup Google Alerts so they can see what others with similar interests are saying.

For some, reading other authors posts will: spark an interesting idea of their own;  allow them to see other writing styles; or show them how other bloggers can take ordinary events and write a topical blog post about it.

Another reason to read other’s blog posts is to add to the conversation on topics already being discussed. For example, lets say you are in the staffing business. You might be an expert at giving interview/resume tips for job-seekers. Why not read what other industry experts are saying and add to their conversation?

Maybe someone wrote a blog about 10 Interview Tips That Will Land You a Job. You can add to that list by providing additional tips that you feel are just as important but the original author left off. Of course, you will always want to link back to that blog.

I saw a video today by Darren Rowse of Problogger that explained 11 ways to add to the conversation. And by “the conversation” he means what others are Blogging, Tweeting, YouTubing, or simply just talking about. He provides 11 great ideas that will help you engage in conversation with others in your industry. And let’s face it, the more you engage in conversation, the more you learn, and the more positioned you can become as an “industry expert.” Plus, you can make some great friendships.