CAREERTIPS: Top 5 personal branding tips from Hardhat Professional employers

Employers believe personal branding is the most powerful self-marketing strategy that Hardhat Professionals could use to achieve career success. It differentiates you so you can get noticed and hired. Branding makes you more memorable.

Branding is not about getting your target market to choose you over the competition. It is about getting your prospects to see you as the ‘”only one that provides a solution to their challenge or fills an immediate need.” For instance, instead of posting numerous CVs online, create a compelling online presence and optimize it, so that employers will not only find you, but want to interview you. Change the rules of the game, attract your audience, instead of pursuing them.

Here are top 5 tips on personal branding from employers in the  Construction and Built Environment industries

1.Self-Reflection. 

Before you start, you need to know what you’re beginning with. Take a moment and write down your top three attributes/selling points/unique strengths. If you can get an employer to associate three positive traits with your application, you will easily rise to the top of the applicant pool.

2. Continuous Learning.

 Always stay on the cutting edge. You can add a degree or a certificate to your existing credentials. Seek out a mentor who can advise you. If you are already employed, check with your employer to see if there is a budget to support your professional development.

3. Consistent Marketing Strategy. 

Everything you do, or choose not to do, can communicate the value of your brand. The CV and cover letters that you format; the emails you send; the words you speak; the clothes you wear, the way you conduct yourself in meetings … everything matters.

4. Build Relationships.

Keep in good contact with your network and always make sure your network knows of any recent successes. Search out new professional associations or online communities to add to your network. Find opportunities to weave your personal mission into conversation with your network.

5. Follow-Up.

Good follow-up will create a positive association with your brand. Return employers’ calls immediately (establishes trust). Respond to all requests (shows responsibility). Write a thank-you note after an interview (demonstrates courtesy). Write acceptance/decline letters upon accepting/rejecting a job.

Building your personal branding is a constant thing and should continue to evolve  throughout your career. Remember, a successful brand is all about demonstrating your unique value to prospective employers and getting recognized, chosen and rewarded for it.

These hardhatCAREERTIPS were compiled with the input from employers in the Construction and Built Environment industries .

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