We all know how competitive the job market is right now. In some areas, there are more than 15 candidates for every single job opening. This doesn’t mean that you need to get discouraged however. Taking a proactive approach and learning how to market yourself in your job search will go a long way towards helping you stand out from the crowd.
Let’s look at a few simple ways you begin packaging yourself for the job market.
1. Build “Your” Brand
Just like companies need to build a brand to get consumer trust and recognition, the same is true of job candidates. So, how does the branding process work? First, you have to establish what it is that you do better than others. Think about your current skills and experience and find the one thing that makes you a candidate of choice. Next, you need to establish yourself as a trusted authority. This can be accomplished in a variety of ways such as publishing articles in a local newspaper, writing online or taking part in networking groups.
2. Focus on Vital Skill Sets
There are skill sets that are desirable in any industry. Project management, communication, organization and leadership skills are what hiring managers are looking for. Make sure you highlight your experience with these skill sets in your resumes, cover letters and communications with potential employers. This is particularly useful if you are looking to lateral into another field where you might not have experience. However, if you have these skills and actively market yourself with this approach, it will increase your chances of getting the job you really want.
3. Utilize Online Opportunities
A huge part of branding is public perception and knowledge. What better way to market yourself than to utilize the numerous opportunities you’ll find on social media? Create a LinkedIn profile that highlights your vital skill sets and what you excel at. Utilize Twitter and Facebook to follow and connect with employers you are interested in. Create a blog where you talk about your experience and help others to achieve their goals. All of these tools can assist you in your job search and creating your own personal brand.
4. Practice Your Confidence
A confident person is a hire-able person. If you want to effectively market yourself, you need to make sure that the perception of you is someone who is confident and capable. By working on your confidence you’ll be molding yourself into a candidate of choice.
5. Develop Your Own Network
Networking is a key way to market yourself. Whether you get out and volunteer at local events, or take part in networking groups, you need to be proactive about meeting others and establishing yourself as someone who is a desirable hire. Take the time to build connections and you’ll be surprised at how much easier it is to get a job.
It takes time to build a brand, whether you are a company or an individual, so you’ll need to practice some patience. Keep moving forward and you’ll start to see results over time. In the meantime, keep up your job search, highlight your most important skills and you will find the job you really want.
Want even more great tips on how to effectively market yourself for your job search? Ask the experts at Solopoint today!