“Most people find jobs not through ads but through personal relationships,” said Riccioli, who uses both Facebook and Twitter. “It’s important for young adults to put the word out among their friends when they’re looking for work. Friends of friends of friends can become the link that helps get that perfect job.”

With the most recent youth unemployment statistics standing at 13.9 per cent — double the national average — youth may need a way to kickstart their job hunt.

Social media may be the answer, said Sinead McCarthy, a vice-president at Youth Unemployment Services in Toronto.

“Because it’s so competitive right now… we’re teaching youth that you need to use social media to help you find a job,” said McCarthy.

Aside from using Twitter, McCarthy recommends that job hunters search for themselves on Google to see what they look like online.

“It’s a new phenomenon where if employers receive your resume, they’re going to type in your name,” she said. “So what you need to do is ensure that your privacy settings are such that they’re not going to come across anything inappropriate.”

McCarthy also recommends using LinkedIn, a networking tool which acts as an online resume while also connecting you with those in your field.

And aside from being connected on the computer, she said it’s a good idea to be connected via Smartphone. There are specific apps out there where you can register and then whenever a job matching your criteria becomes available, you’ll receive an instant notification, she said.

Although young adults need employment to pay the bills, finding meaningful work is also important, said Riccioli.

“The more profound reason for why we need to find meaningful work is that we are made in the image and likeness of God,” he said. “God is the Creator and as God’s sons and daughters, we are hard-wired… to be co-creators. And we do this through meaningful work.”

McCarthy said that meaningful employment should matter to Catholic youth as employment will empower them.

“Employment is the cornerstone of any safe and healthy community… We believe that it helps youth integrate into society and teaches them so much.”

But just be sure to stay checked into reality, said Munaretto.

“There’s a lot of noise in social media, a lot of conversations, requests and opportunities,” she said. “You have to remember to take those opportunities and translate them in a way that goes outside the social realm and to convey your interests in that position, opportunity or event.”