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WHAT’S YOUR
‘NET’WORTH?
HOW YOU CAN GIVE YOUR CAREER AN EDGE BY USING SOCIAL MEDIA -
WISELY AND DISCREETLY
Stand out! Today, creating a personal brand is
neither novel nor an option for executives who want to align ‘who they
are’with ‘what they do’and ‘how they do it’. In the new world of work –
where one is only as good as one’s previous role – the personal brand is a
widely accepted currency. It is the anchor you need in your career to
excel.The rapid growth and popularity of online social networking have made
personal branding accessible and touched all aspects of our lives.
LinkedIn, Facebook,Twitter and other social media sites have made personal
branding ubiquitous.
Amidst all these fascinating changes, a new breed
of worker is emerging – one who feels energised and empowered by the power
of the Internet.The new breed is empowered with confidence, drive and the
full potential of modern technology – including creating a powerful brand
to define oneself as a working professional.
Your current employer or prospective one is looking
for your personal story, your online portfolio (applicable particularly to
creative fields) and your enthusiasm. If on your resume you have listed
‘adventure sports’as a passion, then photographs and blogs, that
demonstrate the same, should reinforce your story. Also, watch out for
profanities and strong religious sentiments on status messages and tweets –
those could jeopardise your chances of success.
NETWORKING BLUNDERS THAT CAN BE KEPT AT BAY:
Never ask for an internship opportunity without
introducing yourself on social media;
Refrain from WhatsApp conversations with your
prospective employer;
Do not position yourself as superior to your
manager or coworkers;
Excessive self promotion – too much self-promotion
could alienate potential colleagues and allies.
As social media and networks expand and competition
heightens – maintaining your personal brand will become the cornerstone of
success. It is equally important for the candidate to be informed while
making choices about the employer. Top recruiters use advanced social CRM
tools to integrate your social presence across networks. Such tools allow
recruiters to organise emails, links, attachments, blog posts, status
messages and tweets – all in one place, and that’s perfectly legal.
Over time, social media will change how HR
recruits. It would be less about ‘applying’for jobs and more about
employers finding you.
WORKING PROFESSIONALS NEED TO
FOLLOW THE FOLLOWING TIPS IN ORDER TO ENHANCE ONE’S ‘EMPLOYEE BRAND’:
AUTHENTICITY:
Maintain
an open communication and assume responsibility for your actions. Create
and communicate an honest construct of your real image;
ALIGNMENT: Ensure that information on all social media profiles
like LinkedIn and Facebook say the same things – employment history,
designations, roles, joining date, etc;
VISIBILITY: Visibility creates opportunities, which in turn,
displays your value to your network. Opportunities for growth will emerge
through referrals and connections that endorse your personal brand.
Remember, perception is reality
NETWORKING: To expand your sphere, you must network effectively. To
get influential people in your sphere, you need to maintain strong
‘relationships’.With a strong sphere, you can persuade your current
employer/stakeholders to hire you.
NISHCHAE
SURI The author is partner and head
of people and change practice, KPMG in India
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