Do you have that one connection on LinkedIn who seems to get a new job every year? Recently I read an article on Forbes.com called How To Become More Newsworthy (And Encourage The Media To Chase After You). As a budding business owner, I want to be the person the media contacts on issues in leadership and science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) careers. So naturally, this article piqued my interest.
After reading the article, I began to think about the media exposure I got. I’ve been featured in print and online publications. I’ve been a speaker at conferences where people would line up to take a photo with me, often describing me as “inspiring”. Company execs have told me, “We’re going to try to steal you away…” It’s been incredible, yet humbling, to be seen as a STEM and leadership expert. ☺
All you have to do is put yourself out there. For example, my friend Chris Miller, an F-15 Flight Simulator Manager at Boeing, has been featured in the local media countless times.
It all started with his love for STEM. He built a flight simulator in the living room of his apartment and has traveled to schools all over the country to teach children about aerospace. Since then he’s been featured on television news stations and countless other media outlets. It’s inspiring to see children smiling as they stare in awe while playing with the controls in the flight simulator.
How does this relate to getting a job? It’s simple, differentiation is the key.
Imagine this.
You’re in an interview speaking with a potential candidate.
Next, you tell the candidate, “So, tell me about yourself.”
The candidate tells you that they travel schools with a flight simulator that THEY built to teach children about aerospace.
Amazing!
This is intriguing and makes for an interesting conversation!
Utilizing media is just one way to be different. Here’s the complete list:
Start speaking! Career development and leadership has always been an interest of mine. I’ve read countless books, participated in various leadership programs and seminars. Over the years, I’ve gained a lot of information on these subjects. For some reason or another I never mustered up enough courage to label myself as a STEM leadership expert although organizations and others invited me to speak on these topics. Taking a huge leap by accepting speaking opportunities has significantly built my confidence. I’m proud to label myself as an expert on leadership and career development. Speaking has not only elevated my personal brand, it has also expanded my network.
Speak at conferences within your industry. Look for opportunities to contribute to your industry. Many times, conference organizers are looking for high quality content to draw in conference attendees. Who says that the high quality speaker they’re looking for can’t be you? Reach out to your favorite organization and ask if you can speak about topics you’re passionate about to elevate your reputation in your industry.
Get featured in the media. According to Forbes contributor Maurice Evans, “For an easy win, hit up local newspapers, radio, websites, etc. Local media loves a local story. Become the local expert or even grow into a regular columnist.” Media journalists are always looking for a great story. Tell your story and get noticed!
Get published! Do a quick Google search for your favorite topic and see what publications are giving coverage on it. Once again, journalists are always looking for a great story. Find their contact information and pitch your story idea, join HARO (help a reporter out) and pitch your ideas hundreds of journalists who are looking for expert advice or take the time to write up a story on the topic and send it in. Just make sure you have it proofread before sending it in and quote your sources, to be seen as a credible writer.
When you start gaining these media opportunities start listing them on your resume! This will help you stand out from the 100’s of people applying for the same jobs.
For instance, you were selected to interview on behalf of Thriving Ambition as an expert in leadership at technology based corporations.
Congratulations!
You can weave your accomplishment into the summary (and/or accomplishment) section of your resume.
It would read, “Guest writer at ThrivingAmbition.com, the STEM career and leadership development site.”
This’ll instantly pique the interest of anyone reading your resume because it’s something that many people cannot list.
These are a just a few ways you can differentiate yourself from the fierce competition in job market.
What can you do today to elevate your reputation in your industry?
