We have to face the facts, securing a job, any job, is a lot harder than it was in the past. I think we can all agree on that. But let me ask you, if you agree that things have changed, why are you still using the same strategies and techniques to land a job?
The days of submitting a resume and getting several call backs is over. O-V-E-R OVER. So the key question is how can you get your qualifications in front of the right people and differentiate yourself from the field. This answer may shock you but it is real…the answer is blogging!
I declare right now that blogging is an absolute necessity if you intend to land the job of your dreams. I know this may be controversial given the amount of commentary on the role of websites, blogs, and social media in your job search but I firmly believe maintaining and updating a blog/website focused on the career/profession of your choice will place you leaps and bounds over your fellow job hunters who have not.
It’s all about the 3-Ds: Differentiation, Desire, and Dedication.
Differentiation: The numbers are staggering, on average an employer receives several hundred resumes for a single opening. How do you differentiate yourself from the pack? I guarantee you that no more than a handful of those resumes link to a personal website/blog specifically designed and focused on the career/position you are applying for. Do you think a hiring manager would take note of that?
Desire: How many times have you been asked in an interview if you really WANT this job? This is a common question for career changers and one that is hard to authoritatively answer if you don’t have the experience to back you up. However, a personal blog/website dedicated to the job you desire will show that you are committed to the industry, committed to the position, and could even place you on equal ground with others that have the direct experience you sorely lack.
Dedication: If you are dedicated to landing your dream job, then you should have no problem dedicating yourself to building and constantly maintaining a blog on your targeted profession. Dedication is key. The fact that you are going out of your way to discuss the happenings in your targeted profession and providing your thoughts and opinions over a significant time frame speaks volumes. Some companies are going to ask for writing samples anyway, so why not just point them to your blog, which will have relevant, up-to-date writing samples.
Believe me, if you want to differentiate yourself from the masses, exhibit the desire most employers are looking for in candidates, and prove your dedication to landing this dream job, you need to start a blog.
