by
Mike Crawford
President, M/C/C
Do
you find it difficult to stand out from the many others who are
networking, applying for and following the exact job path as
you?
If so, it’s time to stop following
that same "finding a job" routine all of your peers are
desperately pursuing and really go for the gold! When aspiring
to become a PR professional, candidates must always understand
that perception is everything.
We are in the business of
perception. All you have to do is EFFECTIVELY demonstrate your
ingenious efforts, impeccable skill sets and one-of-a-kind
personality. Direct your focus and dynamically set yourself
apart from the rest.
Whether you are looking for an opportunity with a PR firm,
advertising/marketing agency or radio/television network, you
already have some advantages and distinctions that most people
don’t. You thrive on marketing. But, don’t stop there. Market
and promote yourself. Demonstrate the same energy and spunk
that would make an employer want to hire you during an interview
by creating a package that will do just that before ever meeting
with any employer.
Think about who is receiving your
credentials and how they are being delivered. When expressing
interest in a company or applying for an open position, anyone
can submit a resume via email, fax machine or snail mail so you
must think like a marketer and separate yourself from the pack.
Here are some ways you can go about it:
Deliver your resume in style
Develop an idea that represents your approach, commitment and
skill. Build your story around an object, toy or trinket that
will give you the opportunity to leave something tangible in the
employer’s hands. The more unique and tailored the messaging,
the more likely an employer will perceive you as a serious and
competitive candidate worth considering.
Build your own website
It’s no secret; employers want to see what you are all about in
the least amount of time possible. Whether you are an
experienced graphic designer or just one who would like to learn
the ropes of building a website to add to your PR skills, you
can take this route and direct employers to "you" in seconds.
Include the basic credentials and anything else you would like
to showcase without having to send dozens of resumes or make
tons of cold calls. You can even utilize online networking sites
like Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook to get the word out.
Join and network
Join meet-up groups in your area and network with
industry-specific professionals. If there isn’t a social media
club, digital PR or PRSA group in your area, start one on your
own. This is also a great way to stay connected with employers
who are looking for solid hires or peers who may know of
potential PR leads to share with you.
When you find yourself looking for a job in PR, think about how
to market yourself in a way that others are not. Be unique,
creative and above all else, showcase "you" in everything you
do.
Mike Crawford is president of
M/C/C, a Dallas-based public
relations and advertising firm. M/C/C was founded in 1986
and has become one
of the top high-tech advertising agencies in the country.
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