In preparation for a recent speech to about 75 PR agency interns, we surveyed the group to uncover their views about the job search process. To provide some perspective, we also surveyed mid level employees at various agencies.
We asked how prepared they’d been in interviews, how important personal connections were and how they differentiated themselves from other job seekers.
I could write a book based upon the responses. But, suffice it to say that interns place more value on personal connections and personality to help them win a job. And, their elders count more on relevant experience and a strong track record to differentiate themselves.
Building what I call the ‘brand of you’ is critical in a business world where corporate loyalty is a true oxymoron. Statistics show the average employee now holds seven different jobs over the course of a career. So, in the same way it’s important for a Unilever, McDonald’s or Starbucks to build and nurture a brand, it’s critical for each and every one of us to do the same.
I’ll share some personal examples of ‘you’ brand building in tomorrow’s blog.
You make great points. Today’s beauty queen contestants all grew up in the digital age, but forget that what they post on Myspace or pose for at wedding receptions is now available to any and all (and will remain available forever in a sort of permanent digital library on the web). As for Mackay, he did a sleazy thing and deserves to be outed. He who lives by the sword dies by it, lunchboy.
Speaking of the “Brand of You”
Both Miss N.J. and Whole Food’s CEO John Mackey are guilty of being negligent in today’s digital age and workplace. While both of their intentions might have been under “innocent” pretenses, what’s at stake moving forward are their reputations.
For Miss N.J., she will always have a black eye from the partying and semi-risque photos being seen by millions when trying to land a job at the end of her pageant career.
Meantime, Mackey is setting a terrible example for his employees and CEO brethren when it comes to reputation management and how corporate executives are supposed to behave.
Thoughts on these two, Rep?