You may have heard that you need to “brand yourself” in order to be successful in your job search. Some people are uncomfortable with the idea of branding, but whether you realize it or not, you already have a personal brand. In its simplest form, your brand is your reputation. Maybe you’re known as “the sales manager that makes quota, no matter what’s going on in the economy,” or “the engineer that can speak in language the customer understands.” That’s your personal brand.
But to make this strategy work for you in your career, you need to (1) understand your strengths, (2) understand how that relates to an employer’s needs, and (3) consistently communicate that message. You must find a way to stand out in a crowded job search. If you’re not known for something, you won’t be known for anything.
The most difficult part about branding is sounding original. One size does not fit all. Be specific about what distinguishes you. Your brand is not your job title. Also, if your branding statement could be said about almost anyone with your same job title, it needs work.
It’s important for a jobseeker to stand out from the pool of applicants in order to receive serious consideration as a candidate. Personal branding allows you to establish a clear message of who you are, the experience you have, and how you can be an asset to the employer.
Make sure your personal brand aligns with your target company’s wants, needs, and/or values. Remember: Employers hire for their reasons, not yours!