To have a substantial online presence or not to have a substantial online presence? That is the question that often comes up in my career coaching practice, especially for jobseekers who are finding themselves looking for work for the first time in years.
Although there has been an explosion in the use of social networking sites such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter; many job seekers still do not have a high appreciation of the value of online presence in the job search as a tool to place the job-seeker above the competition in the eyes of prospective employers. That is what any job search strategy is ultimately about.
Computers have invaded practically every occupation in today’s working world. A jobseeker’s ability to project a technically savvy image has become more important than ever. Providing a professional presentation of yourself through a profile on a social networking site is an excellent way to build a foundation for your online presence. It can serve as your first point of connection with others who can steer you to your next opportunity, and in some cases provide it to you. Your properly completed profile will help establish your credibility when you engage in various networking activities on that site (such as asking/answering questions in LinkedIn). However, social networking sites are truly only a foundation if your goal is to clearly set yourself apart from the competition. The next step is a Web Portfolio.
A Web Portfolio is a web site that provides job seekers with a means for presenting credentials and artifacts to employers that serve as proof of their qualifications and abilities. It has the advantage of being instantly available to employers and, if presented professionally, places the job candidate clearly above the competition. This tool allows candidates to connect with employers in a manner that goes well beyond the capabilities of the social networking sites. It can contain items like awards received, descriptions of projects completed, skills inventories, and experience stories that sell your accomplishments. Your resume can be provided to employers with a link in their email rather than an attachment that they may not open for fear of viruses. The Web Portfolio can be used as a prop in telephone or live interviews to give you personal connectivity far beyond what would otherwise be the case. Your social networking profile (on say LinkedIn) can include a link to the Web Portfolio, bringing both tools to bear in your job search.
A substantial online presence is becoming increasingly critical to a successful job search. It is a key to placing yourself above the competition and winning that job. This means creating an online presence that provides the visibility you require. The most effective means for doing this is by utilizing both social networking profiles and a Web Portfolio.
By Michael G. Kelly, J.D., M.A., B.B.A.
Certified Internet Job Search Expert, Certified Advanced Resume Writer,
Certified Employment Interview Consultant, Certified Web Portfolio Practitioner
Michael Kelly is a State Certified Career Educator and an industry certified Internet Job Search Expert, Professional Resume Writer, Employment Interview Consultant, and Web Portfolio Practitioner. Michael is Principal of LOGIKEL SOLUTIONS, LLC, a turnkey professional career services firm. He may be reached at kellmich@logikel.com
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