Even with the improving economy, employment prospects in the IT market tend to wax and wane like the seasons. If you plan on entering the job market anytime soon, it is best to formulate a collection of strategies that will help ensure you getting noticed by the hiring managers at the top technical companies in your area.
Let’s take a look at some easy steps you can take to position yourself as a top technical candidate.
Build a Robust LinkedIn Presence
LinkedIn stands alone as the preeminent social network for professionals. If you don’t already have a profile, create one. If you have a profile, make sure to treat it as an alternative version of your resume, laden with your work experience and current skill set.
Don’t be shy about asking former employers or co-workers for a recommendation or an endorsement of an ability. Be sure to return the favor. Make it a point to network on the wide variety of LinkedIn groups specific to your interests and experiences.
Make sure your LinkedIn profile becomes part of a cohesive career brand. A brand helps make it easy for hiring managers to research your experience.
Position Yourself as an Expert and Network, Network, Network
Make it point to position yourself as an expert in your field. Attend conferences to network and consider giving a presentation at one — this is a great way to enhance your career brand. Those public speaking skills will help you when you get the chance to give an impromptu “elevator speech” to an executive at your company or some other firm.
It is very important to continually grow your network; actively engaging your colleagues whether it is online, at the workplace, or at an industry conference. Networking ranks with technical ability in their importance to your career prospects.
Don’t forget to partner with a leading technical staffing company in your area. Whether or not they currently have an open position, it is important that they know who you are. One of the leading IT recruiting firms in the New Jersey area, APN Consulting has the expert recruiters on hand to help you build your career brand!