Social media has changed the employment landscape and the way we look for work. For instance, employers now google and look at the profiles of candidates on social network sites as part of the recruiting and interviewing process. In the past, they went by the information presented on your resume. Unlike a resume, social network profiles give a bigger picture of your life.

Candidates can now look for jobs on social network sites Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and check out potential employers. But you can go a bit further. Not only can you check out potential employers, but you can also have access to the person directly in charge of hiring, on Twitter, bypassing any "gatekeepers".

According to the authors of the recently released book The Twitter Job Search Guide, being able to follow the decision-makers, influencers, and hiring authorities, levels the playing field and it's very powerful. Co-author Deb Dib offers these additional suggestions for a productive job search.

1. Be active on social networks. Set aside at least 15 minutes a day to build relationships. (I normally suggest doing this first thing in the morning, before checking e-mail as checking e-mail is not a money-making activity.)

2. Show your expertise. Don't just ask them to give you the job. Give advice, show that you know what you are talking about. In other words, build a relationship first. (Just as you wouldn't go to a networking event and start handing out business cards, you don't just show up and ask them to give you the job. )

3. Acknowledge anyone who has helped you along the way. (Here I'd add, if someone follows you, acknowledge them and thank them for the follow.)

4. Be clear on your career objectives, skills, and your brand. Your brand lets your networking contacts have an overview of who you are, how you work, and how your talents and skills bring value.

If you have any suggestions or comments to add, please do share.