As the concept of creating a strong online brand continues to be vital for those looking for a new opportunity in 2016, legal and finance recruitment specialist, Sellick Partnership, reminds candidates how important it is to be authentic when developing your online presence.
The advice follows feedback from employers who have invited candidates to interview after viewing their impressive online profiles, yet do not live up to this persona when met face to face. This emphasises the importance of building a genuine online brand, using social media platforms to promote and demonstrate their skills, talents and values.
Anna Gibbons, Corporate Communications Director from Sellick Partnership said: “Online brand is a term we are hearing a lot at the moment, and it is key that job seekers take this advice on board. Whether it is views by a recruiter or a direct employer, a candidate’s online profile is increasingly becoming a key part of the decision making process when hiring.
“As important as it is to sell yourself online, it is essential to portray your true identity whereby potential employers can gain a good idea of your personality and values even before you reach the interview stage.”
Sellick Partnership have recently launched a new SlideShare presentation which outlines key ‘Dos and Don’ts’ when it comes to creating an online brand, stressing the importance of honesty and authenticity when it comes to what candidates post on the web.
Anna Gibbons said: “Sharing and discussing relevant posts about topical issues is a great way to build your online brand. However, be mindful of inundating your followers with too many posts, share opinions that you would happy to discuss face to face and not just behind a screen – and use language that you would use in person to ensure that you are creating an honest representation of yourself.”
The increase in employers using social media during the recruitment process has gained some criticism, but this trend shows no sign of changing. According to research from
Following.co.uk, 68 per cent of managers have rejected a candidate based on their social media posts.
Sellick Partnership - which recently launched a new selfie-themed website - has published a new SlideShare entitled ‘Online Branding for Professionals - Putting your Best Digital Foot Forward’ to help those people looking for their next professional opportunity to create a strong online brand.