I have recently noticed some inconsistencies in my personal brand and image throughout my Web and social media presence. And since I will soon be officially entering the crowded market place, I though I would do some #GenYerForHire rebranding. Here are a few things I have done that you might want to take a look at yourself before you start applying for those high paying entry level jobs!
1. Consistent Names
I know this is not always easy to do, because you can’t always get the email or Twitter handle you want, but try to find something very similar at least. If you can do this it makes other recall you faster. After seeing a tweet from your handle, they will be able to recognize that name quickly on other sites. I recently changed a number of my urls and names to all be very similar. Find a brand name for yourself, and stick with it:
Twitter: @max_e_silver to @maxesilver (after reading aDan Zarrella post about the downfalls of numbers and underscores being in your Twitter handle)
Email: MSilver15@gmail.com to Maxesilver@gmail.com
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/maxesilver
Facebook: Facebook.com/maxesilver
Blog: http://www.maxesilver.wordpress.com
2. Profile Pictures
Similar to the idea of having the same names on different sites, have the same picture. Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter, Google Buzz, etc. This again will make you more easily recognizable. And like you, I have lots of fun pictures I like to put up for fun, but if you want to be recognized, make sure to put a clean picture of your face up.
3. Forget The Crap About ALWAYS Being Professional
This doesn’t mean post a picture of you and your huge bong (i.e. Michael Phelps), but this doesn’t mean you can’t ever say “shit” or make a stupid joke on your Twitter. No one wants to work with a boring person, so don’t be boring in public forums. Let your personality show through, while still networking and sharing professional information as well.
4. Don’t Be Afraid To Piss Someone Off
When you take the time to comment, or post something that is popular at the time, add strong worded. Piss some people off. Obviously you would rather say something innovative that will catch on, but that is very hard to do. So instead take a strong stance and stick with it, no one is going to notice that you said something that everyone else agrees with. Even if you piss off someone influential, it is better then not getting noticed at all.
5. Be Everywhere
Maybe you think Google Wave is stupid, or you think Linkedin just isn’t helpful to you. Thats fine, but don’t ignore ANY platform. Always look to extend your presence. You never know when a potential employer happens to love a certain site, and you just aren’t on it. How is that going to look? So even if you don’t like some Web platforms, get yourself on as many platforms as possible. Even if you aren’t going to update regularly, get your profile set up and complete with contact information.
