After our crash course in personal branding last week, I reflected on my own branding and how I could improve on it. I remembered a conversation with my old boss on how much they will review a person online before even considering hiring them, she confirmed that it is true, they will check all social media platforms and websites that are related to you before even considering you for an interview. I started to review all my channels and make sure my privacy settings were appropriate, most things were kept private that needed to be and my linked in gave away enough information to be recognised. After this course, there were some key takeaways that I will surely be doing when I start applying for new jobs.

1. Consistency across your social media channels: Keep things like your profile picture and your interests the same across your social media channels so a potential employer can recognize that it is you and that you truly have a passion and are not just stating it on your LinkedIn profile to get the job you want.
2. Have your own website: Having your own website can really capture what you have accomplished and who you are. It can act as a support to your interests or hobbies although it can also act as an online CV.
3. Define your purpose: Your tagline on LinkedIn, twitter and any other networks or websites you use should clearly define what you are all about and detail your expertise and interests. No one will hire you if you cannot be enthusiastic about your passions online as you would be as an employee.
4. Keep your profiles fresh: don’t let your profiles go stale, it is important to keep relevant by updating your profiles continuously. Keep them fresh by also sharing relevant content and getting in touch with influencers in your desired industry.