Just as companies are known for their brand, people need to have a personal brand. This is your individual value proposition, what makes you unique, what sets you apart from all others and shows what you have to offer. Here are a few ways to help you improve your personal brand.
- Use Google to see what is out there about you
These days, companies and recruiters routinely check people out online. If they don’t like what they see, you will lose employment opportunities. So, you need to know what is out there. Does it represent an accurate picture of your skills, knowledge and experience? Is it outdated?
Google yourself to find out what information is online and make sure there is nothing that could embarrass you or harm your reputation.
- Take a look at privacy settings
Make sure you know how the privacy settings work on all of your social media sites and that they are set accordingly. Make sure you stay current on the settings, so you know if there are any changes.
- Think about image
What kind of image do you want to project? Think about how this ties into your personal brand. Do you want to be known as more of an iconoclast, one who likes to buck the status quo, or someone who is a no-nonsense leader, or someone who is creative and innovative?
The way you write, your particular voice, will help to forge the image you want, so you need to focus on that. When you write, always think about the image you want to convey and how it will contribute to your brand.
- Sell yourself
You need to post information worth reading, but you also need to make sure those who matter find it as well. To do this, you need to make connections to others in your industry. Contribute comments to the websites of others, linking back to your writing. Use Twitter and other social media to get your name out there.
Remember also that it is a two-way street. If you want others to promote you and your work, you need to do the same for them. Recognize others on your websites and link to their writing. You will find that they will begin doing the same for you.
If you are looking for work, Arrow Staffing is here for you. We know the employers, we know the job market, and we know how to find jobs for our candidates. Give us a call today.