Resume Rehab by Colleen

Marketing Yourself

December 9, 2008 at 4:42 pm 2 comments

Since I studied (and work in) marketing communication, I have a different perspective on job hunting than an HR person or even the average job applicant. Looking for a job, much like dating, is about marketing yourself. The more competition there is, the more important it is to differentiate yourself from the pack.

When I came across Michael Driehorst’s latest blog post on Talent Zoo today, I immediately knew I had to share his thoughts with you. Michael is a PR professional that’s currently out-of-work. He’s a blogger (check out his blog: Mike’s Points) with some great insights into how you can market yourself in a job search much like advertisers and public relations professionals market their clients’ brands.

Here are some excerpts from his post:

1. It’s what you know AND who you know

• People aren’t hired just by his or her resume.
• The hiring process is subjective – you’re judged by the way you look, present yourself, sound, answer questions
• You can’t know about every job opportunity – that’s where networking comes into play

2. Typing a poor substitute for real communication

• It’s easy for written/typed words to be misconstrued
• Take care to be clear and concise when you write cover letters and thank you notes
• Consider how social media can help your job search – blogging, Twitter, forums3. Look outward

3. Look outward

• Look for ways to add value to your prospective employer by sharing insights and information
• Reach out to your network of friends, family and acquaintances to help others find careers and business opportunities

4. Timing is everything

• Keep looking for a job, even when you’re discouraged
• Build relationships with prospective employers you’ve already spoken with and your network –  in case a new position opens up, you’ll already be on their mind

5. Have faith

• Be confident in your abilities
• Be honest and ethical in your approach
• Remain persistent in your search
• Continue to build connections
• Help others
• Your time will come

Entry filed under: cover letter, Interview, Interview Follow-up, resume. Tags: job hunt, job interview, Job Search, marketing yourself, Michael Driehorst, networking, Talent Zoo, unemployed.