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Establishing Your Professional Brand

  • Concept of Work: ̄Job searching is an ongoing process; keep an open mind for potential opportunities.

    • You are seen as a passive applicant who may receive unsolicited job offers.

  • Professional Mindset: ̄View yourself as a professional with a brand to establish, not just as a student/employee.

    • Example: Amber Cunningham should be viewed as a skilled professional rather than just as an HR officer at Apple.

Guidelines for Building Your Professional Brand

Research Others

  • Investigate how others present themselves online and their social media engagement.

Honesty

  • Be truthful in job applications; misleading information can lead to rejection.

Professional Communication

  • Exhibit clear and correct writing without revealing sensitive information.

Job Skills Description

  • Clearly articulate technical skills, relevant degrees, certifications, and experience across former positions.

Focus on Problem-Solving & Accomplishments

  • Provide quantifiable proof of achievements, such as customer satisfaction scores or cost reductions.

Crafting Your Professional Brand

  • Create materials that exhibit your professional characteristics, primarily through online platforms.

Guidelines for Presenting Your Professional Brand

Strong Online Presence

  • Website: Create a personal website with your information, work samples, and social media links. Consider platforms like Weebly for ease of use.

LinkedIn Participation

  • Set up a LinkedIn account with industry-relevant keywords to enhance visibility. Engage by sharing articles, joining discussions, and connecting with others in your field.

Utilize Facebook

  • Establish a professional Facebook Page to share informative content related to your field.

Engage on Twitter

  • Follow relevant industry influencers and participate in discussions about trending topics.

Business Card Creation

  • Carry a business card with your professional details and a link to your website; consider including a QR code for quick access.

Elevator Pitch

  • Prepare a concise summary of your qualifications to share when meeting potential employers.

Importance of Online Reputation

  • Employers often research candidates on social media, where a strong positive presence can lead to job offers. Conversely, negative online portrayals can lead to rejection.

  • Regularly search your name online to manage your personal brand effectively.

Ethics in Job Applications

  • Avoid exaggerating or lying on résumés as companies verify applicant information and discrepancies can lead to disqualification.

Finding the Right Position

Job Search Strategies

Major Avenues for Job Searching

  1. Company Websites: Check organization's own pages for openings and application details.

  2. Job Boards: Utilize job portals like Indeed, Monster, or CareerBuilder. Beware of privacy and control regarding resume visibility.

  3. Networking: Leverage connections from previous jobs, school, and professional groups to find opportunities.

  4. Placement Offices: Utilize university resources that connect students with employers.

Using LinkedIn for Job Searching

  • Established employers use LinkedIn extensively for hiring; make sure to maximize your profile's potential.

    • Profile Section: Fully utilize it, include a professional photo, and maintain an updated representation of your skills.�- Updates and Engagement: Regularly post and interact on the platform to increase visibility and connect with recruiters.

Writing Resumes

  • A resume is vital for job applications. Writing it yourself is usually more effective than using agencies.

  • Include relevant keywords related to the job position to pass through electronic screening systems.

Types of Resumes

Chronological Resumes

  • Emphasize work history in reverse order, detailing roles and achievements. Contains basic sections:

  1. Identifying Information

  2. Summary of Qualifications

  3. Education

  4. Employment History

  5. Interests & Activities

Skills Resumes

  • Highlight skills and knowledge rather than chronological work experience; useful for applicants with gaps in employment.

General Resume Guidelines

  1. Identifying Information: Include all necessary personal contact details.

  2. Summary Statement: Highlight essential skills and experiences.

  3. Education: List relevant degrees and academic performance.

  4. Employment History: Detail each position held with a focus on achievements.

  5. Interests and Activities: Include meaningful activities to enhance your profile.

Considerations for Nontraditional Resumes

  • Nontraditional resumes (visual, infographic, video) may suit certain contexts; assess appropriateness based on job culture and your skills.

Writing Job-Application Letters

  • While less common, cover letters complement resumes by providing a chance to personalize your application and clarify unique qualifications.

Preparing for Interviews

  • Research and prepare for interviews thoroughly, rehearsing common questions and crafting unique insights about your professional value.

Follow-Up After Interviews

  • Always send thank-you notes after interviews to reinforce interest and gratitude; responses to job offers should also be respectful and professional.