Social media is a double-edged sword when it comes to reputation and "brand". You can quite quickly build a global personal brand through the savvy use of technologies. Just as quickly, however, your reputation could be shot to pieces through someone waging a campaign against you, bad luck with your name or– worst of all – your own dumb behaviour.
Social media can accelerate the process of getting your name, company, service, product – YOU – out there.
- Focus on what you excel at or are passionate about, especially, but not only, within your industry.
- Do some research and get help to get started. Trends? What’s happening elsewhere? Technologies to support your work? The information and choices are endless.
- If you'd like to start a blog, read How To Blog With Passion and Purpose. Use WordPress, Blogger or other platforms. Get some professional help if you need it to get started.
- Maybe Twitter is a more appropriate marketing tool for your communication style or industry? You could start learning more about Twitter with Wiki How. See Bullas' article on how Facebook and Twitter are different and differently used.
- Have a Facebook page in the same name as your blog. Facebook can easily spread your content, provide feedback and create a multidirectional information flow. And remember, your professional profile is not the same as your personal profile.
- A LinkedIn account is a good professional tool. Watch the videos in Lynda.com for useful information about creating a LinkedIn account.
- Research and get help when you need it. Social media is a moveable feast – so keep up to date and research what approaches are right for you.
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Employers, clients and recruitment firms often Google people to see if they are suitable to interview. People also recruit straight from the internet – without advertising. Either way, it’s a good idea to make sure you have a positive online presence when you’re looking for a job.