Marketing Yourself

Are you prepared to describe how your skills and experiences are valuable to employers?

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Market yourself throughout the entire job search process. Within the job application, resume, and interview there are opportunities to market yourself well. 

  • Within the application be sure ALL information is filled out and free of errors/misspellings, follow up with the employer after submitting an application and be sure you attach appropriate documentation (i.e. resume, cover letter) with the correct file type.  Learn more about filling out job applications.
  • Within the resume, identify the skills needed for the job and highlight those, be sure your format is clear and easy to read, include a variety of experiences (not just formal employment), avoid using templates, etc. Learn more about creating a resume.
  • Within the interview, plan ahead for travel time so you aren't rushed, consider nonverbal communication and be sure to have questions prepared to ask the employer at the end. Learn more about interviewing skills.

Utilize a job contact tracking sheet by organizing a list that includes what businesses you've applied to and any contact information you may have for them.

Consider other tools you may want to use to help you stay organized in your job search. Here are some to consider:

  • Virtual calendar tools (Google/Apple/Outlook calendars)
  • Physical planners
  • Google Sheets or Excel to organize/keep lists
  • The "sticky notes" app on your computer
  • "Reminders" app built into your phone
  • Setting alarms in your phone
  • Note taking tools (notebooks, notes app on phone, recording pens, etc.)

Email is often the first impression you’ll make on an employer—so make it count! A well-written email shows you’re professional, respectful, and ready to work.

Tips for Using Email Professionally:

  • Use a professional email address: Keep it simple and appropriate (like firstname.lastname@gmail.com).
  • Write a clear subject line: Example: Job Application – [Your Name] or Follow-Up – [Job Title].
  • Include a greeting: Start with “Hello” or “Dear [Name],” if you know it.
  • Keep it short and respectful: Be polite, get to the point, and use complete sentences.
  • Always proofread: Check for spelling or grammar mistakes before you hit send.
  • Use a professional sign-off: End with something like “Sincerely” or “Thank you,” followed by your name.

Check Your Inbox Regularly
Employers may reach out to schedule an interview or ask for more info. Make a habit of checking your email daily and responding within 24 hours.

Need help in drafting a professional email? Check out our sample professional emails to give you a starting point.

Many employers will reach out to you via phone to schedule interviews and make job offers. Be sure you are prepared to engage with an employer via phone. Some things to consider are:

  • Answering calls & returning voicemails at appropriate times (i.e. quiet setting, ability to have a calm conversation without distractions, etc.)
  • Update your voicemail greeting so the employer knows they are reaching the correct person and make sure your voicemail box is not full so they can leave a message.
  • Once employed, save your employer's contact information (supervisors, managers, coworkers)
  • Know your employers policies when it comes to phone use while on the job
  • Texting with your boss/supervisor: Once employed, establish HOW your employer prefers to communicate with you.

Many employers will do an online search for applicants so it's important to know what an employer will find if they were to "google" you. Make sure you update your social media privacy settings and consider what you have as your profile photo.

Social media on the job: Don't check socials while you are on shift. Maintain your business' and customer's privacy! Don't post things from your place of business on your own social accounts. Use caution with "friending/following" bosses/supervisors on social media. Keep you relationship professional.