So much of what we do everyday revolves around communicating with others through a digital screen. Emailing, Skyping, social networking and many other activities we conduct through computers, smartphones and iPads have contributed to the image that others build of us. Whatever we write online follows us indefinitely, and becomes a stronger reality for all of us who post on Facebook, post on our own blogs, comment online, or simply “like” others’ opinions.
As a recruiter for marketing, creative, web and IT jobs in the Philadelphia, PA metro, I’m always impressed with candidates who use blogging to their advantage in the job search.
Here are some guidelines:
Know Where to Start
For more advice on how to start a successful blog, we found this article to be helpful.
Be Relevant
How can this reality impact you as a job searcher? In many ways, blogging can have either a positive or negative impact on your job prospects; depending on how you utilize it. As a prospective employee, it’s a good habit to put yourself into the shoes of an employer when writing and posting your opinions online. If you were reading it as a hiring manager, what would you think of this person? Would it be a professionally positive opinion? If not; don’t post it. This is a safe rule to follow even if you are convinced your profiles on various social networks are private. Be extra cautious, and don’t post anything that may leave a bad taste in an employer’s mouth.
Blog an Online Portfolio
Utilizing personal websites and blogs can be beneficial for your job search if it is relevant to the particular career you are seeking experience in. For instance, if you are seeking a job in marketing, you can up your chances of being noticed by creating a personal website or blog where you have uploaded examples of your work, research papers you have published and other achievements that are relevant to the field, for employers to see. Posting the web address on your resume to your website or blog for this purpose is very effective. For many employers and recruiters, previewing your work before you arrive for an interview gives you an advantage over others who still look like a blank resume.
No Complaints
Lastly, don’t utilize your blogging and posting time as a place to complain or whine about how hard it is to find a job. Yes, we all know the job market has changed and it may take months, or even a year to find a position you are looking for. Showing your frustration online, especially to prospective employers, makes you look like an impatient underdeveloped job searcher. Instead, utilize your posts and blogs to show your strengths and skills; giving the employer more reason to want to contact you.
About Profiles
Profiles is a unique staffing firm specializing in Marketing employment, Creative, and Web & IT jobs. Since 1998, we have served the needs of our Clients and Talent by matching the best candidates with the best companies in the Mid-Atlantic region: Baltimore, MD, Washington, DC, Philadelphia, PA and Richmond, VA.
Author Name – Maria Xidous
Title – Account Manager
Location – Philadelphia, PA
Twitter – @Maria_Xidous
Byline – Maria is a recruiter with over five years of experience. She is passionate about finding and helping great talent. Her favorite quote: “A recruiter is someone who finds people who are happy with their jobs, shows them why they are unhappy, and then makes them happy again” (Anonymous).
