Whether you’re an entrepreneur or a student fresh out of college, creating a personal brand for yourself is no longer an option. In today’s digital age, your online presence speaks volumes to potential business affiliates and employers. Prior to even considering an interview or meeting, most people will almost immediately turn to search engines to research the party in question. Careerbuilder.com recently released their findings in a study, which suggests that 35 percent of employers are less likely to interview an applicant if they can’t find them online. Eliminate the qualms of a potential employer by establishing a personal brand for yourself. Ensure your online presence is an accurate depiction of your character and is reflected in your search results!
Your Biography
Writing an autobiography can feel unnatural, but it’s a great way to convey your brand’s story. Rather than draft your story in the first person try writing in the third person. Be sure to highlight all of your achievements and make the reader aware of your aspirations and experience.
Creating Your Platform
Build a professional website that showcases all of accomplishments. Ensure that the front page of your website tells your story, as this is your landing page and will be what visitors read first. Include previous projects, your interests, and career goals. Add links to the social media platforms that you’d want business affiliates to see.
Social Media Platforms
Take some time to sift through your properties. If there are things on these properties that are questionable, delete them. Know that if a potential business affiliate or employer is looking for something, they’ll find it. Stick to more professional platforms such as LinkedIn and Google+. Should you choose to maintain more personal platforms, make them private and be conscious about what you post moving forward. Your social media platforms should be aligned with your brand and portray the same professional demeanor.
Maintaining Your Brand
Once you’ve created a cohesive brand, that accurately depicts your story, it’s important that you maintain your platforms. Should you gain experience, add that to your website and update your resume on LinkedIn. A great way to update your website is through weekly blogs. Blog about your industry and offer an insightful opinion. This shows employers that you’re a thought leader and you’re up to date on current affairs, which is often admired by employers.
Be proactive in establishing your brand’s story. Highlight valued attributes and showcase your achievements. Your online reputation can be one of two things. It can be a great tool, that portrays you in a positive light and sets you apart from competition. Or, it can hinder potential business opportunities. Be conscious about what you put online.