Your Job Search
When it comes to job searching and career transitions, think of your actions in terms of marketing a brand. In this situation, the brand is “Me, Inc.” and the product is your unique combination of skills and experience. Without a clear message that truly differentiates the brand, there is nothing to compel the marketplace to buy the product. Consistent visibility is also extremely important. Without an ongoing presence in the marketplace, your product will get lost among the competition. Finally, unless you are selling to a diverse group, you are limiting your potential “buyers” and therefore need to broaden your audience.
At its core, job searching is an exercise in project management and personal branding. To be successful, you must develop a timeline, milestones, metrics, action items, a budget, and an overall strategy. By focusing in these areas, you will accelerate your search, build credibility, and brand yourself as an expert in your field.