Written by Dave Cullen
The job market has become saturated by highly qualified candidates who possess exceptionally well crafted CVs and cutting-edge interview technique. In today’s hyper-competitive employment arena, job seekers must adapt to the ever changing standards in the job application process. Where once the ability to produce an eye catching CV and ace an interview were enough, now the minimum requirements for success have been raised again. Candidates have had to go back to the drawing board and revaluate every aspect of their job hunting strategy.
To set yourself apart from the rest of the herd you have to get to grips with the newest game in town: “personal branding”. A personal brand is a unique way of identifying who you are to an interviewer, by describing what value you will bring to that company. What makes branding such an effective method is that it gives the employer a concise overview of the candidate’s character, experience, goals and abilities.
As we have discussed in our blog: 5 tips for improving your CV, Personal profiles are more successful than objective ones because they demonstrate what a candidate can offer to an employer. The following personal branding statement comes from jorgensundberg.net: “Citizen of the world and a natural networker, I connect with senior leaders in all areas of the company (sales, marketing, R&D) and throughout all regions to deliver truly global marketing campaigns. I do this through constant collaboration and valuing of different ideas and insights – Marketing Consultant”.
Many people can be uncomfortable about using such personal statements either on a CV or at in interview situation. They feel that such messages are boastful or arrogant, when in fact they are merely allowing you to showcase your talents and sell yourself. Furthermore you are doing the employer a favour by providing exactly the kinds of information they want to hear.
Develop your personal brand by tailoring your career mission statement to the needs of the employer. Your goal is to advertise how you can solve a problem or fill a void in the organisation. You can achieve this by taking the time to conduct the necessary research and identify the needs of the business. Successful Personal branding will allow you to stand out from the masses and market yourself as an exciting and unique prospect for your potential employer.
