3 Tips for Developing Your IT Professional Brand

Your personal brand is one of the most important areas to develop when building your career, especially if you’re on the job hunt. As an IT professional, you are no exception. Many people in your inner circle may know you as the computer whiz, but do recruiters know the same about you? The idea is to get your name out there to individuals who can help get you hired, but that can only be done by developing your brand.

Build Your Brand Online

As an IT professional, much of your existence occurs online, even if you are working on intranets for various companies. This means there’s no excuse for not having an online brand. So if have not set up a LinkedIn profile, now’s the time to do it.

Also, if you are thinking about setting up a Twitter account to discuss IT issues, be sure to create a handle that offers your name and IT title (@johnsoftwaredeveloper). Even incorporate your title in text messages and email signatures to remind people that you’re serious about your industry.

Participate in IT Communities

Another great way to make a name for yourself is by participating in online IT communities. Don’t be afraid to give your two cents about improvements that could be made in the field and signing your name to it. You could even take things a step further by creating your own blog dedicated to IT topics then asking for others to comment on your opinions. It’s a great way to not just get your name noticed but even become respected as an expert in your field.

Have Others Vouch for You

Finally, if you know people in your field who already have a name for themselves, have them vouch for you as a talented IT professional. Ask them to link to your Twitter account or blog and note that you are a knowledgeable resource. Recruiters are always on the prowl for IT experts and may just reach out to you based on the recommendation of a person who has vouched for you.

Developing a personal brand is more important than ever these days as competition increases for just a handful of jobs. So as you continue to grow as an IT expert, be sure to take the steps necessary to build an amazing personal brand.

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