According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were about 1.7 million accountants in the United States as of 2010. There is an expected growth of 16% over the next 10 years. How do you set yourself apart in such a competitive field? Having a degree and expertise in the field is just a small part of the equation. The larger part of the equation is creating a personal brand for your business.
Here are a few measures that you can take to ensure that you remain up to date in the ever-changing job market.
Increase Visibility
The biggest problem with visibility of your personal brand is not putting yourself out there. In a growing world of technology, a simple resume on paper is just not enough. Having prestigious degrees and accolades is no good if no one knows about them. Over 85% of hiring managers are now doing research for qualified candidates online. They are not only looking for the people who have the quality and experience, but they are also looking for people who are available to the marketplace.
Use Social Media
Social media is not just for connecting with friends and posting photos of your children and pets. Businesses are using social media every day to get the exposure that they want to grow their businesses. One step that you can take is to set up a LinkedIn profile. This site allows you to present yourself as a professional in your field. You can tell the viewers all that you want them to know on your profile. You can highlight your educational and professional background as well as highlight any achievements that you have attained as a professional.
While Facebook and Twitter are not as formal as LinkedIn, they are still a great way to brand yourself. These online platforms also give prior customers, clients, and employers a place to give their feedback on your services. Having been endorsed by other businesses gives you the upper hand on the competition. Calling to check references is an archaic and time-consuming way of checking on a prospect that many businesses do not even use anymore.
Personal Brand
The way that you present your personal brand says a lot about the way that you do business. Flying under the radar without an Internet presence does not exactly shout innovation and advancement. You know what image you want to put out there for employers and clients. The job market is competitive and almost no job is secure. However, with the proper personal branding, you can secure a niche for your business by setting yourself apart from the other 1.7 million accountants.
If you are looking to land an accounting job in Michigan, contact the staffing experts at Venteon today.