Perez Hilton, Pim Techamuanvivit, Catherine Sanderson, the world is awash with people who have made it big by beginning a blog. They turned an idea and some thoughts into action, eventually leading to big money offers and full-time media or publishing careers. However, even if you do not want to make it big as a celebrity blogger, it is possible to use a blog to enhance your job prospects and employability.
How a Blog Improves your Standing
Times were when all you had to showcase your talents was a CV and maybe a cover letter. This gave a limited and formal window into who you were which you could further show off during an interview – if you got to one. However, interviews are slanted toward those who are good at talking about themselves and talking their way into jobs. Now, potential employers search for us online prior to interviews. The blog is a good way to control online information about yourself and to show off your thoughts and achievements online. Think of it as an online CV and interview rolled into one.
Making sure your Blog is a Success
The key to making your blog work in terms of finding a new job is to choose the right combination of a topic(s), platform, and style. While you want to give a sense of who you are as a person, you do not want it to be dominated by romantic and social exploits. It needs to be professional and on topic – know the industry you want to work for when choosing a topic. In terms of choosing a platform, decide if you want something free or paid for. The former is economic, but the latter looks more professional. Every blogging platform has its own pros and cons, so it is best to research them prior to making a choice.
When blogging to improve your job prospects you need to remember the following:
- Keep it focused: Always bear in mind how this blog post is going to help you get a job and showcase your skills. Make sure they are on topic, but also interesting to read.
- Develop yourself as an expert: Research widely, look at new trends in the industry and real life happenings. Make your blog cutting edge, but also make it helpful for others trying to get into the industry. Really sound like an expert, but don’t use it to criticize companies who might one day be potential employers.
- Use your blog to network: Share the blog around on social media and on LinkedIn. You never know who might see the blog post and want to talk to you about a job.
Don’t be afraid to showcase it during job applications: Print the blog URL on your business card, link to it from your CVs and applications and use it to demonstrate your thought leadership about the industry and how you can impact it.
Jocelyn Brown is a professional freelance writer and mother. She loves the freedom that comes with freelancing and the versatility it allows her in covering many different topics and themes. When not at work she enjoys running, hikes in the country and making the most of the family time.
*The information and views set out in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and standpoints of Mladiinfo International. Responsibility for the information and views expressed in the text/pictures/video therein lies entirely with the authors.
