Are You... Brand Ready?

When it comes to job interviews, we’re sure you already know all the standard advice… carry out plenty of research, prepare answers for the most commonly asked questions and you may even be thinking about how you will look, what you’ll say and so much more to ensure that you make a good impression. However, it’s highly likely your social media has already given your prospective employer a first impression of you, even before you’ve turned up for an interview!

Yes, employers may look at the online version of you before they invite you to attend an interview to get a sense of your character, lifestyle, background and professionalism, so be brand ready! Researching an individual’s online presence is certainly being utilised as an additional screening tool and it’s important to think about ALL social media profiles as prospective employers are likely to look at more than just your LinkedIn.   They could screening across multiple platforms to really understand a full picture of you and whether your digital “brand” aligns with their business so ensure your social media presence shows the very best of you!

Here are six things you must do before applying for a job: 

1. Update your LinkedIn profile and optimise it to its full potential!
2. Review all Social Media profiles (not just LinkedIn) and update appropriately
3. Google yourself 
4. Make sure your personal life is out of the focus 
5. Really consider your “brand” – your online profile should complement your CV and how you are Perceived

And finally, number 6, be mindful about conveying any controversial viewpoints (It goes without saying that we don’t all agree on the same things but it’s important to think about what you say online. If you post social media content that is highly controversial or may came across as negative you could run the risk of causing offense.  Of course, we’re all entitled to our own opinions and you have the right to communicate your views online but it’s important to be mindful and perhaps you may want to consider updating your privacy settings to control who sees the content you posts).

Social media is a great way to stay connected with friends, family and stuff you like, but with some tweaks and a slightly different focus it can also be a powerful tool for attracting potential employers. 

Select.je specialises in permanent, temporary, contract and executive recruitment for office professionals, predominantly within the finance industry, as well as pre-employment screening, skills testing and training. For honest advice, without the hard sell call 01534 88 88 66, visit select.je or email if you prefer hello@select.je