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How to create a personal marketing plan

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Personal Marketing Plan

How to create a personal marketing plan

You wouldn’t think of launching a new product without a plan, so why would you embark on a job search without one? If you want to shorten the timeframe of your job search and be successful, it’s an absolute necessity to have a personal marketing plan.

Developing a personal marketing plan is not much different from a regular marketing plan you would use for your business or to launch a new product. David Meerman Scott, author of The New Rules of Marketing & PR, has an excellent marketing strategy planning template. I’ve adapted the first page of his template to create a personal marketing strategy to use in your job search and creating career marketing documents like your resume.

Who

Just like businesses need to determine their target audience, job seekers need to know whom they are targeting as well. This serves as the foundation of your job search. Who is the target company you want to work for? What is the industry you wish to be in? Is that company in that industry? What do you know about the company, their mission and culture?

In addition to your target company, start thinking about your network and whom you can reach out to help you connect with people at your target companies. Who do you want to use for references?

What

People buy solutions to problems. If I need to clear my driveway of snow, I am going to purchase a shovel, a snow blower, or hire a company to plow it. It all depends on what I perceive is the best value for the solution to my problem.

Companies look at potential employees in a similar way. They want hire people that can help them solve problems or improve performance — get to market quicker, increase sales, grow market share, etc. What are your strengths and what can they do for your potential employer?

Why

This is the most important section as it sets you apart from the competition—either in business or personally. Think about what you can do better, faster or cheaper than your competition. Why are you the best resource for that? What proof do you have? The proof is the essential support you need behind any claims of what you can offer an employer. This is what will get your resume to the “yes” pile for interviews.

Where

In David Meerman Scott’s plan the where is where to find these customers. I assume you know where your target companies are. It’s a great idea to follow them on Twitter, search LinkedIn to see who works there in your network, etc. The where in your personal marketing plan is a section to document where you have accomplished these skills in your career, and provide a quick summary of your job history.

How

The how section starts to bring everything together. How are you going to position yourself in the marketplace? What are the keywords you need to use to attract your target companies? What are the tactics you are going to use to find your next job?

When

Set some goals to help you get started in executing your plan. Circulate your plan amongst your network so they are clear on what you are trying to achieve as well as what you offer. You might even want to solicit feedback from colleagues on your plan. Here are a few suggestions for goals to get you started:

  • Update your LinkedIn profile with a summary that reflects your plan
  • Add at least two new people to your network each week
  • Attend a networking event
  • Schedule an informational interview

Get Started Today

For your convenience, you can download my template for your personal marketing plan. Just remember that the first step to your dream job starts with a plan. Need help with your plan? Feel free to contact me at 773-531-3457 or email info@brandyourcareer.com.

Get Noticed by Your IDEAL EMPLOYER and Land Your Perfect Job FASTER with Your FREE Launch Your Job Search Checklist!

Send me the checklist!