Whether looking for a job post-graduation or trying to get back on your feet following COVID-19, there’s plenty of unique ways and places to market yourself for a job… and ones that work!
In May of 2020, the total count of lost jobs reached 20.5 million as the unemployment rate jumped to 14.7 percent, the worst devastation since the Great Depression. For those 20.5 million people unemployed, one thing we can all agree on is that, you’re not alone.
For some, job searching is an old game and for others, it’s a process they once completed some 25+ years ago. And as the digital world changes each day, the culture of hiring is changing too. From building a strong online presence to dressing the part, it’s time to take action in intentionally marketing yourself for your next job.
Are you ready?
Develop an elevator pitch.
This one is going to come in handy as you look to attend networking events, virtual happy hours, or connect with employers. Process through and edit down your background and work experience, along with what type of job you seek to under one minute. Just a quick speech of who you are and what you might be able to offer to benefit a company. Marketing yourself for a job often happens at the most unexpected time! You are going to want to have ready exactly what you’re seeking and how you are a highly qualified candidate.
Need a few examples?
- Hi, my name is Sam and after working for 10 years in a corporate banking setting, I’m looking to take a shift and help individuals and families with their investment and retirement planning. If you know anyone looking for some advice and support in planning for their kid’s college, retirement, or any financial goal, send them my way!
- I’m a new college graduate who has experience interning with multiple newspaper companies. I’m looking to find a position that can help lead me to my ultimate goal of becoming a chief editor but I know I’ve got many years of hard work and experience to gain!
- I have decades of experience as a CPA working with nonprofits and small businesses. If your organization ever needs assistance, I’d be thrilled to consult.
Dress for the part
We all know your skills and experience are more important than your appearance, but in today’s work, you have to look the part! Generally, a job interview calls for you to wear professional, or business, attire.
For men, this typically calls for a suit with a shirt and tie or a sweater and button-down. For women, a blouse and dress pants or professional dress would classify as business attire.
Develop an online presence
Where to being? Your job-seeking goals and career are going to help decide the best social platform or website to use to market yourself. For those seeking a creative job, having an online portfolio that showcases your articles, web, and design work is something to consider. For others, having a strong social presence on social media sites, such as Twitter or Linkedin are key. Utilize these tools as an asset in your arsenal to market yourself.
Now more than ever marketing yourself well for a job is key. The best way to beat out your competition is by getting ahead on preparing for when you do have an upcoming networking opportunity, interview or unexpected opportunity to land a new job.
