Use Marketing Tactics to Sell Yourself

In today’s job market it’s not enough to simply write a résumé and then send it into cyberspace. Today’s recruiters want to see that you, the job seeker, somehow stand out more than the rest of the pack. One way to do this is to develop a brand. I don’t mean designing a logo or writing a jingle, but creating a way for the reader of your résumé to see exactly who you are and determine immediately that you’re the right person for the job. It’s OK to have an objective statement telling the employer that you’re seeking a great opportunity to use your skills and education for a company that offers stability and growth, but that’s pretty bland. It might be better to simply have a few pithy words or phrases that really get to the point: Outstanding Advertising Professional. Creative Marketing Guru. Goal-driven Financial Executive. Get it? Place these in bold type between your contact information and your professional profile or summary of qualifications. Branding yourself doesn’t stop there. Create a letterhead that is simple but elegant. Nothing fancy. Use this on your résumé, cover letter, thank-you letters and all of your career marketing documents. You can also create this same heading on a networking card (which is not the same as a business card). A networking card has the same font as your résumé and also the same punchy words or phrases. Use these for job fairs, mixers, or whenever you need to get your name out there. Don’t underestimate the power of your brand!