With half of new graduates jobless or underemployed, many job seekers aren’t sitting around waiting for employers to call. Instead, they’re making a statement by launching a “Hire Me” campaign. While a successful "Hire Me" campaign can encompass a wide range of elements, most job seekers garner attention and persuade recruiters and managers to review their resume by using social media, a blog and/or personal website to highlight their attributes and technical expertise. While some purchase ads or incorporate keywords to boost page views and hits, a “Hire Me” campaign should augment traditional job hunting activities and boost the effectiveness of your search. So don't stop responding to job postings or forget to customize your cover letter and resume.
"Hire Me" Campaign Tips
- Include a “Hire Me” page on your blog
This job seeker speaks directly to reviewers by highlighting the reasons why employers should consider him before providing a copy of his resume.
- Cross-reference
Make it easy for an interested employer to learn more about you by including links to your online profile, resume, portfolio, blog, and social media pages on everything. Then use Twitter and other forms of social media to announce the arrival of new blog content or the acquisition of new skills and experience. Also, embed a link to your “Hire Me” page in a QR code.
- Be professional
Instead of describing weekend adventures or posting party photos, post a professional headshot on Facebook and talk about student projects, internships and recent pro bono activities. Connect with colleagues, professional groups and professors, since recommendations and endorsements are key elements of a successful "Hire Me" campaign.
- Be creative
Include a Q&A about your unique talents, testimonials from co-workers or host an online chat or discussion. But think twice before posting a crazy video or photos, because over-the-top techniques didn’t help this seeker land a job at Google.
