I admit that I had been reluctant to use Facebook for job searching for a year now. Just recently I decided to join Facebook and see if it has features which might be useful to me.

One of the reason Facebook is so important as a job search tool is because most businesses (who are net savy and know the power of web) are already there. And many recruiters are constantly checking social networking sites to reach out to potential candidates, and Facebook is a platform they always check for your presence or lack thereof.

Here are my findings:

I set up my Facebook Profile to be only about my work and my career goals. I am using my professional photo and my updates are relating to the SaaS field (which is my job search focus) and for certain job searching ideas I am finding. And yes, my Job Searching blog (the site you are on now) is listed on my Facebook Profile. My family and friend are finding me on Facebook so I am accepting these friends as well as my networking contacts whom I have met and know.

Key Facebook Tips for the Job Seeker

• Review your Profile and decide what you want business contacts or prospective employers to see.
• Create a simple profile with minimal graphics and widgets.
• Choose your Friends wisely. (note: your Friends can see information about your other Friends in your Profile)
• Post content relevant to your job search or career.
• Use Facebook email to build relationships with your Friends.
• Limit the photos you post.

Facebook Search

When you search for a key word or phrase on Facebook, you can narrow it down to people, pages, groups, link, etc. This provides a wide range of options as to who to network with and reach out to. For instance, if you are looking for jobs related to “SaaS” you can simply search for that term and connect with people in that particular field. You can search for people who are application developers and system implementators; or merely search for links that have the word “SaaS” in them. This allows you to connect with like minded people and build a relationship with them which can help you find a job later. Also if you are searching for links, you might find a job where someone is looking for an SaaS implementator.

Additionally, you can also find links to blog posts or job openings for “SaaS.” To find links that contain the word “SaaS” simply click on “posts by friends” or “posts by everyone” on the left. Once you click either one based on your preference, you can now search for links, wall updates or Facebook notes that have the word “SaaS” in them.

Facebook Pages and Groups

Two very important features of Facebook are “Facebook Pages” and “Facebook Groups.” These features allow you to join a group of people with similar interests, or simply provide an opportunity for you to learn more about a company or connect with recruiters via Facebook. Key tip: let others know that you are available. Your active participation and engagement in these groups will help recruiters determine whether you are a good fit when there is a job opening.

One thing to keep in mind when joining groups and pages is that you want to narrow down as much as possible based on your field of expertise. Make sure to be an active user in these groups because when a job opportunity becomes available, recruiters looking for professionals will definitely look into specific groups and pages to see who they can contact based on their participation and skills.

Also Facebook has many groups and pages for career minded individuals as well as recruiters. Use the word “recruiter” when searching and you should be able to find many groups and pages. Choose the ones that seem active and start participating.

Facebook Applications

Facebook now has over 10,000 Applications in the directory! – some of which are great for job hunters on Facebook. I am listing 5 here the ones I view as most useful for you:

Easy CV – Easy CV is an add-on to the famous on-line resume service. It allows you to add a short summary of your resume on your Facebook Profile and a dedicated page for the complete CV. Recruiters can download your resume directly from your Facebook profile. If you are following and reaching out to the right people, applications like these can be a huge boost for your job search. Your resume can be placed in these formats: PDF, MS Word or video.

Indeed – Job Search – Find jobs where your friends work. Search millions of jobs from thousands of job sites and company career pages. Receive job proposals and resumes from your profile page.testimonials

My LinkedIn Profile – Promote your LinkedIn account with a badge on your Facebook profile.

Business Cards – Business Cards will help you network better on Facebook. Personalize your card and attach it to your Facebook messages! View postings and network with others!

Professional Profile – Create a professional profile on Facebook. With one-click,professionalupload your resume in or import your LinkedIn profile and recommendations. Get recommendations from friends. See resumes in your network.

Facebook Marketplace

This is a feature that you can check to see if it is useful to you. You can find the link to Facebook Marketplace at the bottom left of the main page. After you click on the marketplace icon you will be directed to a page which shows listings such as for sale items, housing, jobs, etc. To find more jobs simply click on jobs and you will be able to see all the jobs listed in the marketplace.

Facebook Ads

This is a cost item within Facebook. You may find this to be beneficial to your job search. Reason: you can target your ads and pin point who sees them. Although these ads may not land you a job, the fact that for $10 or $15 dollars you can be seen more than 20,000 times, it’s certainly an option to consider.

Conclusion

If you are going to use Facebook as a job search tool, be sure your Facebook Profile is professional (limit the pictures you post and the updates you make) for viewing by recruiters and hiring managers. Basic rule: always watch the content you post. You never know who will see your information in the future.

An option to consider: if you are uncomfortable setting up a personal page then create a second Facebook account for a more professional use and keep the two separate.

It is the world’s largest network of local groups.  Meetup.com (also called Meetup) is an online social networking portal that facilitates offline group meetings (in various localities around the world). Meetup allows members to find and join groups unified by a common interest, such as politics, books, games, movies, health, pets, careers – and job hunting networking!

Check this short video from Commoncraft: “What’s Meetup”

Click here to view the embedded video.

The Meetup website ( http://www.meetup.com/ ) makes it easy for anyone to find one of the thousands already meeting up face-to-face.  More than 2,000 groups get together in local communities each day, each one with the goal of improving themselves or their communities.

You may be interested in this 2-minute YouTube video from Scott Heiferman  – co founder of Meetup.  Scott was in Baghdad recently and he puts a nice perspective on how community can be built up and supported through technology (but ultimately people).   http://tinyurl.com/dg3uaj

Meetup’s mission is to revitalize local community and help people around the world self-organize. Meetup believes that people can change their personal world, or the whole world, by organizing themselves into groups that are powerful enough to make a difference.  Meetup helps people find others who share their interest or cause, and form lasting, influential, local community groups that regularly meet face-to-face.

Meetup Groups help people:

• find others
• get involved locally
• learn, teach, and share things
• make friends and have fun
• rise up, stand up, unite, and make a difference
• be a part of something bigger, both locally and globally

How do I find a Meetup Group?

Before you can join a Meetup Group, you have to find the right one for you.  If you don’t have a Group in mind yet, you can find one by doing this:

1. Click ‘Find a Meetup’ at the top of the page
2. Enter some search terms, your zip code, and the distance you’re willing to travel
3. Click ‘Search’ to see a list of Meetup Groups near you!

Once you find a Meetup Group you want to join, click the ‘Join Us’ button to become a Member.

Check these local Meetup groups (for Jobseekers) in San Francisco:

San Francisco Professional Career Network
http://www.meetup.com/San-Francisco-Professional-Career-Networking/

Next meeting:
Tuesday, June 23rd at 10:00 am
55 Second Street
One block South of Market

Unemployed Jobhunter Meeters
http://www.meetup.com/Unemployed-Jobhunter-Meeters/

Next meeting:
Thursday, June 18th at 2:00 pm
Glen Park branch library
2825 Diamond Street
San Francisco

Meetup manifesto

• Let’s be fearless.
• Let’s exercise our human right of assembly. Let’s exploit it big-time.
• Let’s use the Internet to get people off the Internet.
• Let’s bring back the handshake. The verbal debate.
• The smile. You know, some good ol’ face-to-face, eye-to-eye contact.
• When people get together amazing things happen.
• They advocate, argue, learn, laugh and share.
• Let’s be a group. Let’s be a real group.
• Groups have a history of making history. People unite, motivate, activate and mobilize.
• Groups give us the power to face a health crisis, start a political movement, pursue a passion, launch a business, and turn strangers into
• friends. To be bigger than ourselves.
• Let’s step away from our screens for a moment.
• Do without the PC, the TV and the phone. People are more powerful than pixels. A real group can beat up a virtual group any day of the week.
• Let’s find the others. The ones that want the same thing.
• Let’s meet in real time, in real places, and make a real difference.

Do you have a business card to use for networking?

When you’re networking and meeting people, it helps to be able to offer them a business card.

People who meet you will want to know how to contact you. Presenting them with a professional looking business card is essential in today’s’ job market.

Yes there will situations (like job fairs) where passing out resumes is realistic (and expected).  But in situations where passing out a handful of resumes is not feasible …use business cards for your networking.  Also, when you have a business card – and instead of walking around with a piece of paper - you are viewed as being more professional.

Networking cards look like traditional business cards. In place of a company’s name or a job title, job-seekers often list their objective or a tagline, as well as relevant skills.  In place of an employer’s name, insert “Consultant,” or your occupation, such as “Financial Manager,” or “Sales Professional,” below your name.

You can print your key qualifications (or summary of accomplishments) on the back of your networking card — giving you a mini-resume to distribute when carrying your regular resume is not feasible. Remember to focus on your three or four key accomplishments (or qualifications) and not on past job titles or duties.

Typical Layout:

• Name
• E-mail Address
• Telephone No.
• Your website address
• Your job function or title, or 2-3 core competencies

Business Cards can be purchased from a variety of places.  Also, you can have networking cards printed for you at a local printer or on the Web — or, you can try designing and printing them yourself on your computer.

Recommendation: use Vista Print and get 250 business cards free with the cost of shipping.

Check this short video from VistaPrint: How to Create a FREE Business Card

Click here to view the embedded video.

Another option: Use Microsoft Word and design a card yourself, then print it.

Here are the steps:

• Go to the “Tool” menu from the top row.
• Choose “Envelopes and Labels” from the “Tools” menu.
• Under “Options,” find the name of the paper manufacturer (Avery) and then find the correct product number in the lower left corner.
• Type in the information you want on your card in the text box and hit “New Document.”
• You can then format the cards exactly as you want them to print.
• Print the final versions (on a high-quality inkjet or laser printer only)

Conculsion:

Business Cards should be a major tool for your job search.  The cards should not replace your resume — you should still try to take your resume with you when job searching.  But in situations where a resume is not feasible, networking cards are a great self-marketing job-search and networking tool.

Always carry a stash of your networking cards; you simply never know when you’re going to meet someone who may be able to help you in your job search.

This topic came up at a recent Meet Up with fellow job seekers.  Going into business for yourself during these chaotic economic times.  An entrepreneur is a person who has possession of an enterprise, or venture, and assumes significant accountability for the inherent risks and the outcome.

The definition of Entrepreneur: an ambitious leader who combines land, labour, and capital to create and market new goods or services. The word is French and was first defined by the Irish economist Richard Cantillon. Entrepreneur in English is a term applied to the type of personality who is willing to take upon herself or himself a new venture or enterprise and accepts full responsibility for the outcome.

Entrepreneurship is often difficult and tricky, resulting in many new ventures failing. The word entrepreneur applies to someone who creates value by offering a product or service, by carving out a niche in the market that may not exist currently. Entrepreneurs tend to identify a market opportunity and exploit it by organizing their resources effectively to accomplish an outcome that changes existing interactions within a given sector.

Here are 10 Reasons to Start a Business in a Recession from Brad Sugars (he is columnist and the writer of 14 business books including The Business Coach, Instant Cashflow, Successful Franchising and Billionaire in Training)

Brad says there is no better time to start than the present, especially if people around you are more comfortable with their own list of reasons why they shouldn’t start pursuing their own business dreams right now. It only means you’ll be facing a lot less competition.

1. Everything is cheaper.
Let’s face it: There is great value right now in this and in world markets. This is the right time for fantastic deals in virtually every category, from land and equipment to commercial office space, personnel and labor. As asset prices have been knocked down, there is no better time to get into the real estate or financial markets, or even heavy equipment and construction. Some people have waited years to find value in these markets–and now that time has come.

2. You can hire more and better-qualified people.
In an era when even Microsoft is laying off, you can find great resources at affordable rates. Thinking about getting your high-tech startup off the ground? There are plenty of engineers waiting to be hired. Thinking about forming a professional services firm? There are many accountants and attorneys looking for their next opportunity.

3. People are looking to change suppliers.
From a cost perspective, everything is on the table for most companies. Even if your prices are higher, if you can come in with greater value, you have a good chance at winning new business. You also have the advantage of being the new kid on the block when it comes to pitching your products and services. Many companies are desperate to find new partnerships with new companies that have a different, better or more innovative way of delivering those products and services.

4. Ownership equals tax incentives.
Business ownership offers a variety of tax benefits that aren’t available to employees. While taxes should never be the sole reason to go into business for yourself, it should be one reason to add to you “benefits of business ownership” list.

5. Family and friends don’t want to (or can’t) invest more money into the stock or real estate markets.
That means they may be willing to finance a portion of your new venture, or the expansion of an enterprise that has proven itself over time. The main benefit is that they know you and have a relationship with you–and if you have a solid business plan that delivers real numbers, your chances of raising the capital you need increase exponentially.

6. Suppliers are giving better credit.
Because the credit markets have virtually shut down, the B2B credit flows are keeping money circulating out of sheer necessity. That means a bullish outlook for companies looking for good terms on stock and/or inventories. The main advantage is that all parties have more incentive than ever for finding true win-win situations that allow for cash and stock flow. When everyone is looking to survive, great deals can be had.

7. You can get good PR by showing you are going against the trend.
The media loves aberrations, and if you are optimistic by expanding or getting into business now, you would be in that category. That means you can generate some great PR by demonstrating your “alternative” view of the market.

8. You can buy everything you need at auction.
In addition to everything being less expensive, you can find great deals at auctions, especially in terms of any large equipment and office furnishings. Auctions are also a great place to find hardly used or “gently” used restaurant and bar supplies at great prices. These days, you may even be able to get deals on fleets of vehicles and trucks for a delivery service or hauling or construction company.

9. You can find great “low money” or “no money” down deals.
This is simply being aware of good opportunities others have buggered up, and finding deals where you could get an entire business simply by taking over a lease (along with all the equipment). Many business owners want out at any cost, meaning you can negotiate great win-win deals that allow the current owners an escape while giving you an opportunity to turn around what could be, if run right, a very viable business.

10. You’ve lost your job, and you have to do something.
Sometimes, the best business decision is the one you are forced into, and the incentive (as well as need) for income is often enough to push those previously “on the fence” to strike out on their own. There’s nothing wrong with being in this position; it simply means there is greater urgency to do something that will start to generate income as quickly as possible.
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Bonus Tip #1: Listen to this 52 minute audio  http://www.kqed.org/epArchive/R904020900 from PBS reporter Scott Shafer on a program entitled “forced entrepreneurship”

Scott’s guests are experts on the topic:

• Gary Jones, founder of Superstar Tech Support.com
• Laura Forst, currently developing a business plan for her specialty packaged nuts company, Laura’s Nuts
• Mali Dyck, business manager for Garden Fare, planning and installing ‘edible landscapes,’ gardens made completely of edible plants
• Mark Cannice, associate professor of entrepreneurship, founder and executive director of the Entrepreneurship Program in the University of San Francisco’s School of Business and Management
• Marty Nemko, contributing editor, careers for U.S. News and World Report and author of “Cool Careers for Dummies”

Click the link, open up a new browser window, and then listen while you go about your online job searching!

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Bonus Tip #2: Check Ideas4Rent Marketing …. for marketing and advertising news, tips and ideas to help you grow your business.  Go to this Twitter name:    ideas4rent or go to their website:   http://www.ideas4rent.com/

It is essential to have an elevator pitch – you need to communicate your main message quickly, clearly, and distinctly to a stranger – quickly and under pressure.  The name “Elevator Speech” reflects the fact that an elevator pitch can be delivered in the time span of an elevator ride (for example, thirty seconds and 100-150 words).

The idea of an “elevator speech” is to have a prepared presentation that grabs attention and says a lot about YOU in a few words…   What are you going to be saying?  …  By telling your core message, you will be marketing yourself and/or your business, but in a way that rather than putting people off will make them want to know more about you and your business.

It is imperative to work on this two to three minute presentation until it is perfectly crafted. This is the one kind of speech that should be memorized.  Make it such a part of you that if someone woke you up from a sound sleep in the middle of the night, and asked you what you do, you would smoothly and without hesitation tell them your “elevator speech.”  This speech will serve as your introduction to others, so it has to be good!

Read more how an Elevator Speech - a clear, concise bit of communication that can be delivered in the time it takes folks to ride from the top to the bottom of a building in an elevator - can be put together with this article by Katherine Hansen:   http://www.quintcareers.com/job-search_elevator_speech.html

Here are Katherine’s  Do’s and Don’ts of Elevator Speeches. Follow these simple rules and you should achieve success with this important tool of job-hunting:

• Do make your Elevator Speech sound effortless, conversational, and natural.
• Do make it memorable and sincere. Open a window to your personality.
• Do write and rewrite your speech, sharpening its focus and eliminating unnecessary words and awkward constructions.
• Do avoid an Elevator Speech that will leave the listener mentally asking “So what?”
• Do consider including a compelling “hook,” an intriguing aspect that will engage the listener, prompt him or her to ask questions, and keep the conversation going.
• Don’t let your speech sound canned or stilted.
• Do practice your speech. Experts disagree about whether you should memorize it, but you should know your speech well enough so you express your key points without sounding as though the speech was memorized. Let it become an organic part of you. Many experts suggest practicing in front of mirrors and role-playing with friends.
• Don’t ramble. Familiarizing yourself as much as possible with your speech will help keep you from getting off track.
• Do be warm, friendly, confident, and enthusiastic. A smile is often the best way to show friendliness and enthusiasm, while a strong, firm voice the best way to express confidence.
• Do take it slowly. Don’t rush through the speech, and do pause briefly between sentences. Breathe.
• Do project your passion for what you do.
• Do maintain eye contact with your listener.
• Don’t get bogged down with industry jargon or acronyms that your listener may not comprehend.
• Do be prepared to wrap up earlier than you were planning if you see the listener’s eyes glazing over or interest waning.
• Don’t hesitate to develop different versions of your Elevator Speech for different situations and audiences. When developing an Elevator Speech for a specific employer you’ve targeted, do research the organization and incorporate that knowledge into your speech.
• If you’re cold-calling a hiring manager and get his or her voicemail don’t be afraid to leave your Elevator Speech as a voice message. You may be even more successful getting action from the speech than if you had talked to the manager personally.
• Do incorporate examples and stories to help support your points. Provide examples of successful outcomes of deploying your skills. Stories make your speech memorable.
• Don’t focus just on yourself, an approach that will almost assure a “so what?” reaction.
• Do focus on how you can benefit employers and help them solve their problems. Remember as you deliver your Elevator Speech that the listener may be mentally asking, “What’s in it for me (or my company)?”
• Do use concrete, listener-friendly language, but at the same time, don’t be afraid to paint vivid word pictures.
• Don’t forget to include your competitive advantage — also known as your Unique Selling Proposition (USP); in other words. how you can perform better than anyone else.
• Do end with an action request, such as asking for a business card or interview appointment.
• Don’t forget to update your speech as your situation changes.
• If you are uncomfortable with the kind of speaking that the Elevator Speech entails, do consider joining a group such as Toastmasters to boost your confidence.

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Elevator Speech  Builder from Harvard Business School:

http://www.alumni.hbs.edu/careers/pitch/

I am sure you will benefit by using this easy-to-use tool for setting up your Elevator Speech.  Here is what I have established for myself:

Hello, my name is Ron Proctor.  I am a Human Resources systems professional specializing in Software as a Service implementations – most recently I was with SuccessFactors – a SaaS vendor – for 2 1/2 years.  Here is my card…

I have over 15 years experience in the Human Resources field and hold an MBA in HR from Golden Gate University. My specialty is to transfer my knowledge to my clients through best practices consulting.

I have a proven background as an effective consultant who can manage multiple projects at one time, have strong business process knowledge and excel at providing excellent customer service.

I am looking for a position either as a Consultant / Project Manager or a SaaS implementator.

May I have your card and call you next week?

Note: This word count is 125,  the estimated seconds is 32 and I have repeated 18 words.  According to the Harvard Business School site, an average Pitch is a word count of 230; an average length is 56 seconds with only 4 repeated words.

Social networks allow all parties involved to better search for and reach their target. Instead of having a broad, over-arching resume, these tools let people connect over detailed experiences.

Check this short video from Commoncraft: Social Media in Plain English

Click here to view the embedded video.

LinkedIn
Linkedin enables you to see profiles of anyone else on LinkedIn, and gives you ways to connect to them.  There are a few ways you can use LinkedIn in a job search:

• Company search – One of the best ways to use LinkedIn is if you have a very specific company you are interested in.  You search on that company, and hopefully find people who are connected to other people you know.  Then, you can ask your personal contact to connect you.
• Job postings - LinkedIn allows employers to post jobs on the site.  The jobs are usually high quality, professional jobs.
• Email – It is easy to send an  email to contacts in your LinkedIn network, letting them know of your situation, and asking for any help or the names of people you can contact.
• Blog Link – LinkedIn has the ability to link a blog post to your profile.   With a new blog post,  your Linkedin  profile is updated and it includes the updated post in the weekly update emails that go out to your connections.
• Twitter Link - Similar to Blog Link, LinkedIn also pulls your conversations from Twitter.  So, anyone who is not on Twitter, can see what you are tweeting about.

Twitter
Twitter allows you to connect with people you don’t know, based on common interests.   It is a great way to network!

• Basic networking -  You can be connected to people who are out of work,  and you can learn about available  jobs.   In a short time you can obtain information about the jobs ,  sending a “Tweet” to people you meet on Twitter.
• Job postings -  Check out JobAngels and local job listings – a great number of these are being established monthly.   Job recruiters also have Twitter accounts and use them to find qualified applicants.
• Connecting -  Read the bio of the person you are interested in connecting with him/her; you can see if they live / work where you might be interested in and, if you feel the contact can connect you to job opportunities,  then get in touch with them.
• Companies – Check out the  Twitter tool called Twellow – it  searches people’s bios and URLs on their bios.

Facebook
Facebook can be a networking tool as well.  It is used primarily for connecting with friends or people you know and reconnecting with people in your past.

• Notes -  You can use the Note feature in Facebook to explain your out-of work situation and what you are  looking for.  A note tends to stay on people’s screens longer than a status update, and you can write much more.
• Status update -  You can frequently post status updates relating to your job search, to remind others that you are still looking for a job.  For Example:  “I had a great interview this morning… keep your fingers crossed!” or “I have a networking meeting later today with a company I’m really interested in!”.

Personal Blog
I think a blog is a critical piece to getting a job because it enables you to do a number of things:

• Showcase your talents to potential employers – they see how you write, see what’s important to you, see who you are personally, and even see examples of your work.  All that, before they even meet you.  It helps make you a real person versus a piece of paper resume.
• Comment on other blogs – This gets your name out there even more, and if you write something interesting, it may catch the eye of a potential employer.
• Blog about opportunities you want -  You can blog about the types of jobs you want. For example, if you want a job at a specific nonprofit doing HR work, you can blog about ideas you have.

Source: How to Use Social Media in Your Job Search
http://jobsearch.about.com/od/networking/a/socialmedia.htm

CONTINUE READING >>

Social Media Links

Create a  Social Media Resume

Social media has allowed us to reverse the recruiting process. Instead of submitting our resume, it becomes a billboard that can be shared, distributed to hiring managers, searched and more. In one sense it showcases your talents and what you’re looking for in a job and in the other, recruiters become attracted to it and will approach you with the opportunities that you desire.

With a social media resume, you’re able to paint a completely different portrait of yourself for hiring managers and customize it to reflect your personal brand. With the inclusion of various multimedia elements, sharing options, integrated social networking feeds and the same elements you’d find in a traditional resume, you are better equipped for success.

http://mashable.com/2009/01/13/social-media-resume/

Use Twitter to Find Job Leads

How to Get Started Guide

Here is a link to understand what all the Twitter fuss is about – and why you might want to use this social networking tool.  Don’t miss out on useful information and professional connections. Check out this easy guide on how and why to get started with Twitter.

http://www.cio.com/article/479010/Twitter_How_to_Get_Started_Guide_for_Business_People

How to Use Twitter to Job Hunt

LinkedIn is great for job hunting – but do not miss out on the power of Twitter. Here’s expert advice on how to tweet your way to new contacts and opportunities.

http://www.cio.com/article/482324/Twitter_Tips_How_to_Use_Twitter_to_Job_Hunt

CONTINUE READING >>

See How Linkedin is going to change the Job Hunting Process

As an job applicant in this economy, it is hard enough to get desired visibility,  and, when you have to spend long hours in front of the computer, cutting and pasting your resume, filling out online applications forms, reformatting the information you’re submitting to fit each position you want to apply,  it can be exhausting.  What is the resume for?   … its merely a data point for assessing some ones ability to meet the requirements of an opportunity

It is clear that the typical recruiter does not  rely only on a resume any longer. Phone screens, assessments, backgrounds screening, and reference checks are all part of the evaluation process. As applicants build out their social presence through social media tools, I strongly believe that the resume in its current form will be replaced by the profile with an ‘all about me’ focus. Companies are racing to build this internally, and vendors are starting to understand the power in tapping into the data from the social media providers.

So what if a recruiter was to use a Linkedin Profile to find applicants to respond to job opportunities?  I believe this will be a a future trend.  Conversely, what if an applicants can, with a touch of a button,  respond to a job posting from their linked-in contacts, and with a simple click select their linked-in profile to be the foundation for their submission (i.e. no more resume).  One’s LinkedIn profile is actually a resume anyway. This portability of your profile is seamless and doesn’t require, finding, updating and reformatting a resume for consideration. It also doesn’t require you having to be at your personal computer to find your resume word document.

A new Linkedin Tool called Connections is available for you to 1) group your connections however you’d like by tagging them, 2) one click messaging, select a group and start writing, and 3) type-ahead Search: Jump right to the connection you’re looking for by typing a couple letters of their name.

Five Ways to Make The Most of Recommendations

LinkedIn recommendations from past and present colleagues can be one of the most helpful features to help communicate your value. Here’s five tips for doing the most good for yourself with LinkedIn recommendations.

http://www.cio.com/article/481496/LinkedIn_Recommendations_Five_Ways_to_Make_The_Most_of_Them

What is a brand? A brand represents a company’s products and services. When we see a familiar logo, it arouses feelings and associations—good, bad, or indifferent. A successful brand is one we identify with and feel good about.

• Like a good product brand, a personal brand is a tool to help you stand out from the crowd.
• A personal brand says clearly, “This is who I am and what I do.” It displays your unique talents and experiences.

The Changing World of Employment
If you are job hunting right now, you’ve noticed that things have changed over the past few decades.

• Today, job postings, applications, and resumes are posted online. But you can’t just post your resume and wait for responses.
• Conveying your personal brand in your resume can help you sell your talents and skills.
• All generations are competing in a tight job market. If you can clearly show what sets you apart, you’ll have an edge.
• Recruiters and interviewers—many of whom are younger than you—may not be impressed by how long you’ve worked. They want to know how you can be valuable to the employer.

Elements of Your Personal Brand
Perhaps you’re thinking: “Why do I need a brand? My experience should speak for itself.” Not so. Valuable as it is, experience should not be your only selling point.

The purpose of a personal brand is to add the “wow” factor.

Here are some of the elements that go into your brand:

• Your skills and qualifications. What are you good at? What are your key talents?
• Your achievements. How have you made an impact?
• Your passions. What do you love doing? How does your passion infuse your work?
• Your value. Do you offer what the employer is looking for?

Using Your Brand in Your Job Search

A personal brand can be incorporated into all phases of your job search.

Networking. Networking is more important than ever. A personal brand can help you feel more self-assured as you network.

• Introduce yourself using elements of your brand. For Example: “I’m Jane Murdoch, and I turn conflict into agreement. As the owner of Better Communications Inc., I teach people how to resolve conflicts and manage change.”
• Use social networking sites such as Facebook and LinkedIn. The connections you make online could open up job leads.
• Get business cards printed, and leave them with your contacts.

Resumes and cover letters. Liven up your resume and cover letter by pointing to your unique achievements, skills, and work values.

• Focus on measurable achievements which are much more compelling than job titles and responsibilities.  For Example: “increased sales by 40 percent,” “expanded program from one county to four.”
• Near the top of the resume, include a career objective or skills summary. Show that your expertise matches the requirements of this particular job. Learn more about writing objectives from Monster.com.
• Create a fresh cover letter using the elements of your personal brand.

Interviews. A major component of your brand is how you present yourself in public.

• Show a positive attitude—be alert, interested, and confident.
• Be aware of your body language and maintain eye contact.
• Pay attention to your appearance—be up-to-date, professional and energetic.

Your Brand—Not Brand X

You might not be in the habit of  “tooting your own horn.” But unless you can market your skills, you’ll find it hard to get the attention you deserve. By creating your own personal brand, you’ll have a valuable tool that will help you succeed in your job search.

KeyTake Away: Make your first impression clear and concise – in marketing this is called USP: your Unique Selling Point – it is a major part of branding.  In a nutshell: what do you offer that few others can offer? The fewer competitors you have the better when you are competing in today’s job market.

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More on Branding:   Sailing the Seven Cs

The First C: Competent

You aren’t going to get very far if you’re not qualified for the job. The basis of all brands is the rational attribute of competence. It may not be sexy. It may not be exciting. But it’s essential. All strong brands possess the right combination of experience, education and proven results.
Competence is the foundation you need to get in the game. If you’re looking for a new position, you aren’t even going to be considered if you can’t meet the minimum competency requirements. When you look at the world’s strongest brands, like Tiger Woods, Richard Branson and Jack Welch, you can see that they are, at a minimum, competent.

What should you do? Build a plan to keep your skills current and yourself competent. Look for the next big trend and acquire the skills needed for that new role.

The Second C: Clear

Strong brands are clear about who they are and who they’re not. They don’t waver. They don’t waffle. They understand their unique promise of value and demonstrate it in everything they do. This promise sets them apart from their competitors.
Being clear about who you are and what you uniquely have to offer enables you to attract and build loyalty among those people who can support your rise to the top.

Volvo, for example, is clear about their commitment to safety and security. They’re not about speedy sports cars, or about small economy cars, or about luxury cars. They build cars for families ”cars that are safe.” And they clearly focus their communication activities on this differentiation.
Lesson?

Be clear about what distinguishes you from your peers.

The Third C: Consistent

In addition to being clear about who they are, strong brands are also consistent. They’re always who they say they are.
Volvo is always about safety. They don’t change their focus from model to model. When new cars roll off the assembly line each year, they are at least as safe as they were the previous year.

Madonna is consistent about change. She’s the chameleon brand of entertainment, reinventing herself with each CD that she produces. She didn’t change for her first five CDs and then stay the same for the next two. She consistently changes. And the one thing we can be sure of with regard to her upcoming CD is that it will be nothing like any of the others she has done before. Madonna’s ability to change consistently throughout her career separates her from other entertainers, thereby strengthening her brand.

To have a strong brand, consistently demonstrate your unique promise of value.

The Fourth C: Constant

It is not enough to be clear and consistent if you’re not always in your target audience’s purview. Strong brands are constant and they’re always available and visible.

For Coca-Cola, the world is the target market. That’s why you can’t make it through a day without being exposed to that familiar script logo. Vending machines, people carrying a can as they walk down the street, restaurant menus, product placement in TV shows and movies, billboards and print and TV advertisements all scream “the real thing.’

You would need a budget the size of Coke’s to remain top-of-mind to everyone in the world. So just remaining visible to those people who need to know about you will make you successful.

In short, be constantly visible to those who can help you reach your goals.

The Fifth C: Current

A strong personal brand is based in the present with room to evolve for the future. Your core, authentic brand elements don’t change; but your brand needs to grow to remain relevant to your market.

Starbucks has been steadily adding to and evolving its brand throughout the years. Consistent with its core brand promise of a place to build community, Starbucks has installed wireless networks in their stores to remain ahead of the curve and give their customers yet another reason to hang out and be a part of the community. Martha Stewart evolved from writing cookbooks to entertaining to being the overall Domestic Diva. And then… well, let’s just leave it at that.

Your brand should strive to remain relevant. Don’t let it be stuck in the past!

The Sixth C: Compelling

A strong personal brand is appropriate for and relevant to the ideal target audience. You must ensure that what differentiates you from your peers is interesting to your target audience. Get ready to wow them with your unique offering! This requires that you really know your target audience. You need to understand their pains, their challenges and their dreams.

It may sound like a lot, because it is! Ensure that what you do and how you do it is irresistible.

The Seventh C: Connected

Rarely do people achieve greatness alone. Instead, strong brands surround themselves with others for mutual benefit and growth.  Every week on The Apprentice, we saw Donald Trump with his trusted colleagues. If you look closely at other strong brands, you’ll see that they understand the power of connections.

Your professional network extends your brand for you. It amplifies your message in the marketplace and avails you to opportunities that would otherwise be invisible to you.

To ensure that you see these opportunities, pro-actively make connections and nurture them.
In the end, all strong brands practice these Cs. Now it’s your turn to evaluate your own brand against these crucial elements.

Source: Sailing the Seven Cs by by William Arruda

Many people have a goal of “collecting x number of business cards,”  but these aren’t necessarily meaningful connections for you.  You should decide ahead of time what companies you want to work for, and find them, or find people who know someone who works at that company.

Create business cards with  your skills on the back of your card.  List what type of position you are looking for: “Marketing professional seeking a position where I will be able to make an impact in my areas of strength of social media, branding, strategy, advertising, and online marketing.” Add your web site address and an email address that is professional or represents you.  Do not include your home address on your card, but DO include your LinkedIn profile address and your Twitter ID.

Give people you meet three bullets about you and what you’re looking for. Be clear and concise  so they can remember what you said.

One of the parts of networking that is most difficult is how to end a conversation.  Suggestion: “It was great seeing you.  I look forward to crossing paths again.”

Bring a small notebook with you to take down follow-up notes, and send everyone you meet an email after the event.  Categorize the people you met into the following groups:

A – Action – need to connect them with someone

B – Want to have coffee with

C – Whenever/If Ever – Nice conversation but no immediate need to connect with them