I had the opportunity to speak at a job hunters networking event last night about how to use social media for the job search. As I researched the topic I realized that the skills and actions necessary for a job search used when we are seeking our next new project or new client.

We have to continuously be on the lookout but as important – or maybe more important – we have to be easy to find. One way to do that is to determine our brand – who we are and what we offer – and then consistently use that brand in every medium.

In the past our logo and company name were the face of the company but with the interactive and conversational nature of social media – our picture, name and message are now eclipsing our logo in importance. Our picture makes us real and our conversational nature make us approachable.

When picking the brand message for my business I turned to a book called "Make a Name for Yourself" by Robin Fisher Roffer. It isn't new but the message and the exercises are timeless. The author forces us to ask what value do we bring? How do we want to be known?

If we can clearly identify and communicate that message it makes it easier for others to remember and refer us to potential prospects.

Remember the comedian Ray J. Johnson? "….but you doesn't has to call me Johnson."

A funny bit – but the point is to be consistent with the name, photo and message that you use for yourself. Pick one User Name and use it for all social media site. To check if your name is available on all sites – visit KnowEm – it will check over 300 social media sites to see if your name is available.

Are you on LinkedIN Of course you are! Make sure your title has benefit words instead of a "tell nothing" title like President or Owner. You only have a few minutes to grab someones attention when they visit your profile page – so directly under your name include words that will make they stop and want to learn more. Are you a CPA? Then perhaps your title is "CPA – expert and finding new ways to drive more money to the bottom line."

Bottom line – determine your brand – what value you bring and then use that consistently in every venue – including the signature line on your email.

• Peaks and Valleys - a Timely Read
• Own Your Brand in Seven Steps
• Have you Googled Your Name?

1. Shawn Says:
   February 21st, 2010 at 9:59 pm

   Deborah,
   I’m often surprised how many people go running around after business or jobs without giving any serious consideration to whether those opportunities are right for them. This can especially be true in these hard economic times, but you are right. Establishing a brand, namely what value you bring to the equation, is crucial if you ever intend to get anywhere with either job searches or searches for clients or clients.

2. Deborah Chaddock Brown Says:
   February 22nd, 2010 at 7:31 am

   You are so right, Shawn. Thanks so much for the visit and the comment.
   Deborah