Are you looking for new ways to get noticed by employers and land job opportunities? No matter where you are in the job search process, how potential employers perceive you can make a substantial difference in whether you stand out from other applicants. Taking the time to enhance your professional image on social media, in application materials, through effective communication, and during interviews can help boost your confidence and make a positive, lasting impression.
Online Presence
Did you know that approximately 90% of recruiters use LinkedIn to source or vet job candidates? LinkedIn is the largest professional networking site. A professional-looking LinkedIn profile highlighting how you can add value to employers can be the first step toward strengthening your professional image on social media. To quickly gain an understanding of how to create and enhance your LinkedIn profile, watch Career Planning and Development’s career skills program on Launching with LinkedIn.
LinkedIn is specifically designed as a professional networking platform. However, other social media sites focusing on personal networking, such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, etc., can blur the lines between personal and professional interactions. As you engage in your job search, remember that what you post on social media sites may be viewed by potential employers, recruiters, and others in your field. Avoid posting content that does not align with the positive image you want to share with the world. Periodically Google yourself to stay informed on what employers may see when searching for your name. Also, if you have a common name, consider including your middle initial on social media profiles to distinguish yourself from others.
Application Materials
Did you know that it takes approximately 6-7 seconds for employers to review a resume and determine if an applicant should advance in the hiring process? As you apply for jobs and other experiential opportunities, your cover letter, resume, and other application materials need to reflect the highest levels of professionalism to increase your chance of success. Career Planning and Development’s SkillsFirst career management system has over 600+ resume and cover letter samples to help you develop professional-looking, stand-out documents. Get started by referring to the step-by-step SkillsFirst Resume and Letter Guide, or visit the Resumes and More tab to learn more about using SkillsFirst.
Although we provide many samples and tools to help guide you through creating quality application documents, consistent formatting, spelling, and grammar also play an important role in communicating your professional image. Before sending out materials to potential employers, always check that your document has consistent formatting throughout. For example, if you use periods at the end of your accomplishment statements in your resume, check to see that every accomplishment statement has a period at the end. Read over your documents carefully or use tools such as Grammarly.com to flag and fix any spelling or grammatical errors.
Communication
How you communicate with potential employers, recruiters, or hiring managers through email, online, over the phone, or in person can either make or break your overall job search strategy. Craft email communications carefully by checking for spelling and grammatical errors, avoiding all caps (this can be perceived as shouting), and ensuring that all components of the email, such as the subject line, greeting, and signature, are present. For tips on how to communicate with recruiters on LinkedIn, refer to the LinkedIn article, How to Contact Recruiters on LinkedIn, for sample language and suggestions.
When communicating with employers over the phone, leave a clear, concise message. If you are nervous, create a short script or talking points and practice your approach before calling. Finally, you may decide to visit a potential employer in person. In this case, ensure you are well-groomed, dressed appropriately, have copies of your resume available, and exude a friendly, professional demeanor. Remember that first impressions matter; every interaction is an opportunity to shine through presenting your best professional self.
Interview Etiquette
Establishing a professional online presence, developing strong application materials, and applying effective communication are all strategies that can ultimately lead to more job interviews. Whether you are invited to interview in person, on video, or over the phone, learning and practicing interview etiquette before, during, and after the interview can increase your chance of landing the position. Career Planning and Development’s Interviewing tab includes a toolbox of information to help you prepare for all steps of the interview process and includes key elements for cultivating a professional image, such as appropriate attire, punctuality, body language, and follow-up after the interview.
After receiving a job offer, continue polishing your professional image by bringing your best self to the workplace. Watch the webinar, 10 Steps to Enhance Your Professional Image, for additional tips on workplace communication and etiquette. No matter where you are in your job search or career, always bringing your best self can help you build a positive brand, gain trust and respect from others, and propel you into the next chapter of your career.
Additional Resources:
Indeed Article: How Long Do Hiring Managers Look at a Resume?
LinkedIn Article: LinkedIn Etiquette and Best Practices:
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/linkedin-etiquette-best-practices-20-dos-donts-melonie-dodaro/
Indeed Article: From Inbox to Interview: 5 Email Etiquette Tips Every Job Seeker Must Know
Written by Dina Bergren, Manager, Career Planning and Development