Are you looking for a job? Then marketing yourself as a product is a MUST.
For each job posted by a potential employer, numerous candidates are interested in it. Majority are equally qualified as you. So the question is, how do you stand out from the crowd? Below are some tips to brand yourself for the job market.
CV and Cover Letter- Your CV and cover letter are the first selling points to the potential employer. Begin these documents with positioning statements. Backup each statement you make with evidence either in hard or soft copy with explanations and elaborations of your work experience. Make your cover letter brief and on point.
Interviews – most interviewers tend to be extremely busy and may lack time to prepare for each candidate adequately, they often rely on the CV as a guide and ask questions based on the achievements and experience on your CV. As an interviewee, you must develop a story well in advance before the interview and practice to enable you articulate your examples and explanations well on how you will add value to the employer.
Online presence – make an effort to google yourself, what do you see? In this 21st century, many recruiters take time to research candidates online. This therefore means your web presence must be positive and one should build accounts on professional sites such as LinkedIn, Twitter, ZoomInfo and Facebook among others.
You could also develop content in your area of expertise for newsletters, websites or blogs. In all you do, beware of what you post on your personal website, blog or professional site.
Ongoing Career Growth Positioning – once you settle in your dream job, do not lose focus on your personal positioning. Nurture and develop your brand in everything you do because people are watching and they shall know you by your actions. Constantly learn a new skill in your area of expertise, keep growing yourself and keep track of your career goal.
In conclusion, as a job seeker, you must have a plan. Have the following questions in mind in relation to your career and job history.
- Where have I been, where am I now and where am I headed with my career?
- What is my career destination?
- How do I get to my career destination?
- How do I translate my career plan into actionable steps?
- What changes do I need to make and how do I make them if I am not achieving my career goals?
From the University of Nairobi, Office of Career Services, we wish you nothing but the very best in your job search. Remember, positioning yourself is crucial to landing yourself your dream job.