6 Ways to Increase Your Marketability
Photo by Christina @ wocintechchat.com on Unsplash
Whether you've got your eyes on a promotion or a new job altogether, marketability matters! In today's competitive professional landscape, it's important to set yourself apart from the growing pool of qualified candidates. Below are a few ways to do just that!
Obtain a certification.
While there is no shortage of available certifications (they literally have one for almost everything these days), the key is to find the most relevant certification for your position or field of choice. Relevant certifications can help you gain credibility and further validate that you have the skills needed to succeed.
Pro-Tip: Target the certifications with known positive salary impact! For example, the PMP certification is often called "the gold standard of project management." It's estimated to account for a ~20% high salary compared to project managers who don't hold the certification.
Learn a new technical skill.
Even if you aren't working in tech, chances are pretty high you'll be working with technology. Identify the technology relevant for your desired position, then take a course to sharpen your skills, moving you from Beginner to Advanced.
Pro-Tip: If it's not technology that you use today, figure out a way to incorporate it into your current role so that you're getting regular hands-on experience if possible. For example, if you've got your eye on Microsoft Project, create mini project plans for the work you need to accomplish!
Join a professional organization.
Having a relevant professional organization on your resume conveys your commitment to the profession! It also shows that you are actively participating in the advancement of your profession/field.
Pro-Tip: Take on a leadership role where possible to really stand out.
Update your resume & LinkedIn.
This one pretty much speaks for itself. Make sure your resume and LinkedIn paint the best picture of the value you'll bring. Also, be sure to tailor your resume where possible, using relevant keywords from the job posting.
Pro-Tip: Make sure you write your resume and LinkedIn through the lens of where you ultimately want to go, not just where you've been.
Know your industry's trends.
Whether you use formal publications, podcasts, events, or social media, knowing what's going on in the industry helps you build credibility. This shows that you understand the greater impact of what you do and how you work.
Pro-Tip: Take action in response to the trends. Turn those actions into talking points with your boss or as you interview.
Network, network, network. Sometimes it's not what you know or who you know, but who knows you. Connections act as bridges to dream careers... build as many bridges as you can!
Pro-Tip: Make it a goal to meet someone new each month. Be sure to nurture the relationship!
If you're currently considering a career change, be sure to check out our ultimate job seeker's bundle, The Professional Pivot Kit. Created with DIYers in mind, The Professional Pivot Kit includes everything you need to make your search a success!
