If you’re a job seeker you’ll probably know that increasingly, employers are looking for “blogging” as a key work skill. And what better way to demonstrate to potential employers that you blog well, than by doing one! In this article by brilliant young job seeker Lorenzo Matibag from NYC, he shares his tips on how to do it well and attract that dream job.
If you’re a job seeker you’ve probably faced an awful truth. That is, in many cases, an extensive list of experience, the highest education, a well-detailed and formatted resumé and a thoughtful cover letter for the finishing touch, aren’t enough to get you hired or even noticed in this extremely (and frustrating) competitive job market.
So what else can you do to step up your game and get noticed?
Blogging. But only if it’s done right.
If you’re a suitable candidate, employers will try to find information about you to the best of their abilities to see if you’re even worth their time calling in for an interview. Blogs are essentially a great way to prove that you are in fact worth their time. These serve as your virtual salesmen showcasing your background to curious recruiters … your virtual guardsman defending you 24/7 against doubtful employers.
Here are a few pointers for job seekers starting a blog:
Assuming you’re a seasoned professional who’s looking for a job in your field, how to create a blog dedicated to that industry is pretty obvious. You might ask, what’s the point? Doesn’t my resumé state that I have extensive knowledge in the field already?
Not exactly. Stating you’ve worked for one company or more for God knows how long is not enough. In addition, what can employers truly get out of a compressed job’s responsibilities? Employers need more validation.
This is where your blog comes into play. Your blog backs up what you state in your resumé. The best part is that you can write about your industry knowledge for as long as you like, post after post. Write about the ins and outs of the industry, the latest trend, etc. The more you write, the better. That’s the beauty of a blog.
You’re not forced to squeeze your expertise into small portions like you do in a resumé.
If you’re a college student or a recent graduate job seeker who’s looking for an entry-level job, a less-specific or a general blog will do. No, this doesn’t mean you’re free to write excessive, irrelevant, and inappropriate posts about Kim Kardashian’s latest “innocent” backside photo or Bieber’s next run-in with the law. You certainly can. But you’ll most likely not get the job.
Don’t get me wrong. I’d be lying if I said I don’t enjoy reading senseless posts or memes. But it’s not something I would post on my blog.
You have to keep it strictly professional especially if you’re trying to impress prospective employers. In case you can’t resist the urge to write meaningless topics, I suggest you make a separate blog for it and make sure it’s private.
So how do you go about writing that general blog?
Lorenzo Matibag
Write about how your college experience will benefit you in your future career. If you’re a recent film grad for instance, write about your favorite movies and the technical aspects that make them great. Or write about the worst movies and what makes them suck.
Blog about professors or school projects that had a profound effect on you. Basically, write any (appropriate) subjects that exhibit your writing and thinking abilities. Your blog serves as a filter for employers to check if your buffoonery days are over and you’re ready to work in the professional world.
Blogs are ideal for career change job seekers as well
Let’s say you have an immense talent and interest in architecture. But you’ve been an English teacher in your whole professional career. How can a firm hire or at least call you for an interview if your resumé doesn’t state any architectural background? A blog portfolio might just do it.
Create one that is dedicated to your dream career. Post sample works. Discuss any involvement you have in the field. Follow bloggers who are expert in the same field. Who knows? They could be your gateway to your next job. (Make sure you don’t bash your current one. But I’m sure you already know that.)
Once you have your blog up and running, consider these tips
As a job seeker, I noticed that “blogging” is appearing on many job ads. So include your blog on your resumé. There are proper ways to do it. Search “How to Incorporate Blogging on a Resume.”
Learn about Search Engine Optimization. This is crucial. This is what makes your blog visible in search engines’ search results. The more visible your blog appears on search results, the easier for employers to find it.
Job seekers: don’t make your blog private. Again, the purpose of your professional blog is to display your knowledge and abilities. It’s pretty foolish to mention it on your resumé if the employer you want to impress can’t see it.
Lastly, commit to your blog. Enjoy it. Update it as frequently as you can. Don’t neglect it. You’ve got to stay persistent and patiently wait for that call.
Lorenzo Matibag is a talented young job seeker looking to make a valuable contribution in the digital/online marketing industries. Snap him up while you can!
photo credit: Wesley Fryer via photopin cc