One of the most important parts of the process of branding yourself is being able to communicate your value easily, effectively, and with confidence.
Without this important skill set, you won’t get very far in your job search.
Understanding your unique value proposition and being able to effectively convey that message is something you need to be able to do consistently and continuously in your search. Sharing your brand through social media and communication vehicles is the next important step in your job search.
In today’s job market, so much networking and job seeking is performed online — and much of it still happens person, making it critically important for you to be able to communicate effectively both online and in-person.
Here are two steps to begin this process:
1. Write and speak in an authentic tone of voice when you’re writing your branding statement, your resume, cover letter, even writing about yourself on LinkedIn or in a Linkedin group. If you are a more formal person, use a more formal tone. More casual, use that tone instead. Always err on the side of being more professional, but use a tone and language that suits you and communicates your personality. If you try to write something that doesn’t feel like you, it will come off as stiff and inauthentic.
Your branding statement should work as easily in casual conversation as it does in a professional networking event. Have it committed to memory so that you feel comfortable using it in any situation, and can easily adjust it as needed. Avoid using industry specific jargon when you’re talking, and watch your tone of voice –be sure to speak with enthusiasm and inflection. (And smile!)
2. Once you’ve written your statement in an authentic manner that speaks to your personality, your goals and talents, it’s time to share your brand through social media and other communications vehicles.
We’ve referenced some of these above – like your resume and cover letter. Your branding statement can be a powerful part of your professional profile or summary of qualifications section at the top of your resume.
Next, work on incorporating it into your LinkedIn profile. Use your resume to build your profile but don’t make it a carbon copy. Adjust it somewhat and pare it down to fit into Linkedin’s format – and make sure that it speaks to the results you would bring to a potential employer.
Facebook is being used more frequently as a networking tool. As you know, it’s important to be cautious about what you post; but that’s easy to do, now that Facebook has created a tool for grouping contacts according to interest or need. You can create a group of professional contacts that you want to keep in touch with regularly.
Consistency is key!
Use your branding statement at in-person networking events, (professional and personal) and practice it in advance in front of the mirror so it flows easily and effortlessly. And if possible, work it into the signature line for the email address that you use for job searching. The key to utilizing social networking for your job search is to participate regularly, touch your contacts consistently, and provide value whenever possible.
Follow these tips, and you’ll become known for what you do.
Hallie Crawford is a certified coach and founder of Create Your Career Path. Her team of coaches help people find their dream job and make it a reality. She is regularly featured as an expert in the media including the Wall Street Journal, CNN, and US News & World Report. Visit their website at www.HallieCrawford.com for more information about their services and to sign up for a complimentary phone consultation.