What’s in a Name? Plenty!

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Are you getting your name around on the Internet? You probably spend a lot of time online already, but are you making the most of that time? Are you getting known as the go-to guy or gal in your profession, laying the groundwork for getting a job–or getting a better job?

You don’t have to be an established professional to make the Internet work for you. In fact, if you’re a business student you can start building a solid business reputation right now by using the Internet effectively.

Job recruiters spend a great deal of time on the Internet doing research. If they keep happening upon your name, as someone who’s doing exciting and innovative work in your field, they might offer you a job, even if you’re not job hunting. If you apply for a job, sometimes recruiters or HR directors will google your name to see if you’re recognized in your field.

There’s no doubt that having your name pop up on an Internet search engine as someone who’s a standout in your field will give you a big advantage over other candidates. So how do you get some of this choice exposure? One way is to write an interesting and well-read blog.

A Strategic Blog

While there are all sorts of blogs today, you want to develop one that has something important to say. Here’s how:

• Provide current, vital and accurate information.
• Report on cutting-edge developments.
• Don’t just report the facts–take the time to give your readers some meaningful insight into the facts and information you are reporting.
• Show that you have a depth and understanding of your field.
• Propose an idea or talk about how something you did solved a problem that you are covering in your blog.

Make sure your blog is well-written, that you use proper grammar, spelling and punctuation. That’s critical if you want your blog to be taken seriously.

Potential employers or clients might be reading your blog at some point, so work to impress them. In a resume you don’t get a chance to express your ideas, display your way of thinking, showcase your problem-solving skills, communicate your passion for your field. But you can do all that and more in a blog, and your blog speaks volumes about your qualifications.

In time, a popular, well-crafted blog can make you a recognized expert in your field, helping to open doors and adding to any business’ client base.

Join the Discussion

Another good way to get your name around on the Net is to participate in online discussions in your field. Many professional organizations host these discussions on their websites. It’s a good way to exchange ideas with others in your field, and it boosts your name recognition.

Recruiters often peruse these websites and might find your comments interesting and thought-provoking. Again, remember to write stimulating content with solid information that stays on point. Material has a way of remaining on the Internet a long time, so be sure to write something you are proud of and can refer people to.

These online discussion groups offer a great opportunity for you to give meaningful advice to someone else in your field and get like-minded professionals to see your true talents. Used wisely, the Net can help find you a job and keep a job in this highly competitive, shrinking job market, and bolster your resume with a valuable added credential.