Quick tips to for different generational approaches to self-promotion
We hear every week at our job search networking groups about the challenges local job seekers are having with their job searching efforts. Most of our 40-something year old job seekers are parading around town handing out copies of their resumes and the 20-something recent graduates are promoting their skills though sidebar advertisements on Facebook and links to their online resumes.
What intrigues me about these methods are not just the guts these job seekers displayed. It’s the different generational approaches to self-promotion. The baby boomer gravitated to in-person, face-to-face networking; the Millennial went right to the Web.
My best advice, during these challenging economic times, is to use a bit of both to promote yourself. Combine the “old-fashioned” methods with new technologies as young adults are competing in the job market with much more qualified people who have been laid off and need to find any job they can. At the same time, older professionals are competing with younger workers who are willing to be hired for less money and security. And, in this economy, every job seeker has to try every job-hunting method available.
Here are some self-marketing tips for job seekers of all generations:
1) Make sure your technical and communication skills are as strong as possible.
2) Become an active user of LinkedIn.com
3) Network face-to-face.
4) Play up your assets, whatever they are
5) Don’t ever put yourself — or your age — down
Whatever your age, skill level or experience, always remember that self-marketing is about building on your strengths and addressing your weaknesses. So, be confident, be willing to learn and keep a positive attitude. Self-marketing makes a big difference in a difficult job market.