There are some incredible products out there, but if they’re not marketed properly, you’ll never hear about them.
It’s the same when you’re looking to make a career move- you have to make sure prospective employers are aware of the skills you have to offer.
Update your documents
“Your CV is the first step to improving your marketability,” says career coach Toy Joubert. “Think of it as a sales document. Each time you apply for a job you need to tailor it to the requirements of the employer and ensure your key selling points stand out. Don’t be modest, if you are good at something, emphasise it,” she says.
You, the product
Think of yourself as a brand — what characteristics will set you apart from the other candidatesh “The best possible way of presenting and marketing yourself is as a quality product. Be visible to prospective employers and create the right perceptions about who you are and what you do,” says Jenny Handley, brand strategist and author of Raise Your Profile (self-published). “Express confidence in your abilities — but be humble,” adds Colleen Shedden, owner of personnel agency Interview for Success. “Always be respectful, professional and well mannered,” she says.
Make a good impression
“Small talk is a big opportunity to make a worthwhile impression,” says Handley. “Ensure that you have a broad, up-to-date knowledge of what is happening in the world around you, so that you can start a conversation cleverly and memorably.” Research topical issues related to your industry and find out about potential employers and who their competitors are. “Utilise the Internet for information and industry updates,” suggests Shedden. “This shows you are proactively looking to understand the marketplace.” Join online organisations, network and build contacts within your industry, as your next move could well come through someone you know.
Skill up
“In your current job, be on the look out for opportunities to continuously add to your skill set,” says Joubert. “Ask to be involved in or to lead a project. Assist a new employee if they struggle with something. You might not get paid extra, but in the long term these skills will add to your experience and therefore increase your marketability,” she says.
Check out your profile
Do your own background search on Google. Head-hunters and employers may search your background on the Internet and it’s good to see which pages form your identity and create perceptions of your personal brand online. A good way to develop a recognisable profile is to start a personalised blog and update it regularly. This will elevate your ranking in search engines and ensure that you are in control of your own brand.
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