Marketing Yourself In A Job Interview – It's All About Personal Branding

As I scour the planet for a full-on communications master, I have come to a few conclusions about things that should and should never be done by someone looking for a gig. And here they are… in no particular order:
– Don’t downplay what you can bring to the company – most of us are looking for how you’re going to add value (not what you’ve done)
– Do send a follow-up “thank you” email right away including answers to some of the questions that may have stumped you during the meeting
– Don’t add the person who is interviewing you to your IM Buddy List
– Do remember that you are a brand – make it count and be prepped to spark great conversation
– Don’t be cute and send a “fake” press release. 1 out of 2 people had “Twist Image Hires Communications Expert <insert potential employee’s name here>” – feh
– Do try and remember the person’s name who may hire you (I kid you not people have called me by the wrong name)
– Do make every touchpoint relevant – if you want to email or call, ask power questions that are going to improve your chances (not impede them) – Good: send an article related to an issue we discussed. Bad: Including me in a mass email about anything (we’re not friends yet!)
– Do be creative
– Do something that is relevant and unique to Twist Image
– Don’t make me wonder how you’re going to be our communications person when you’re making spelling mistakes and inappropriately communicating with me
– Do be yourself
– Do know what you’re worth and ask for it
– Don’t forget – you are a brand! From how you look, speak, engage to what you bring to the table