When I was at work the other day some of my coworkers told me that my friendly and kind personality is my brand. Truth be told, I never thought much about what my brand was before. We notice lots of brands out there in the world, but you never think about applying that concept to yourself.

Your personal brand is the unique combination of YOUR skills and experiences that make you YOU. Your personal branding will allow you to stand out from other professionals in your field and from other job seekers.

Answer these questions to help you start thinking about your brand and what you bring to employers!

1- What are you known for, and fabulous at?

2- What do you offer and do that is significantly different from everyone else?

3- What were you noticed for back when you were a teen and young adult?

4- What skills, talents, and abilities make you stand out?

5- What life experiences have shaped you in special ways?

Check out how to start thinking/creating your personal brand started for free in this [personal branding guide] (https://www.quicksprout.com/the-complete-guide-to-building-your-personal-brand/) I discovered, or get more in depth [here] (https://www.pwc.com/us/en/careers/campus/assets/img/programs/personal-brand-workbook.pdf) with step by step instructions that you complete as you go until you get your results. It will help you think about your strengths in a whole new way.

What would you say YOUR personal brand is?

Don’t let your Facebook profile stop you from getting a job! Employers are checking you out EVERYWHERE, social media included, so make sure to put your best Facebook forward.

Do a check in and make sure your account is #jobready by answering these questions!

1- Do you possess and/or showcase the qualifications you claim in your resume on your Facebook account? Start by filling out your “About” section! This is the chance to fill out the skills you possess in a summary much like the one in your resume.

2- Have you updated your work history and education? Keep things fresh and active!

3- Are you a good fit with the company’s corporate culture (you can find this info on the company’s page under their mission statement)? Your likes, shares, and posts all tell a story about your beliefs and values so think carefully before clicking away.

4- Do you have anything incriminating that would give them a reason not to hire you? Do you speak negatively about your boss and colleagues or make fun of past clients on your profile?

Looking for more tips? Check out the things to avoid on your social media accounts [here] (https://www.jobcase.com/conversations/4769ae73-8418-5d22-a281-69b328c174a6)

In today’s modern world we have to wonder...WHO doesn’t have a Facebook account? Well according to Forbes, not having a Facebook page can be detrimental to job seekers. Those without Facebook accounts, in particular, are often viewed as “suspicious” by hiring managers. On top of that a new survey revealed that 92% of recruiters use social media today to actively seek out applicants. So don't miss an opportunity!

Some job seekers feel it’s easier to simply delete their accounts rather than worry about their privacy settings. This, however, can make employers wonder if you’re hiding something. So make sure to check out [these tips] (https://www.jobcase.com/conversations/4769ae73-8418-5d22-a281-69b328c174a6) on what to avoid on your social media accounts so you can be #jobready

Think your future (or current) employer won’t be checking your social media accounts? Think again! According to new surveys between 60-70% of employers are looking. Show them you’re a worthy candidate by avoiding these top mistakes!

Writing the way you text The way you write a post and how you text your friends should be kept separate. When posting, keep a similar style to how you would write a professional email and stick to those standards. Use proper grammar, make sure things flow well and make sense, avoid using all caps and spelling mistakes (yes employers WILL judge your type-o's). When in doubt use a free software like [Grammarly] (https://app.grammarly.com/) or spell check. It will help you appear professional!

Posting inappropriate images or those with alcohol Anything you wouldn't want your mother or future boss to see, avoid! Assess the overall theme of the images that you post, are currently in your albums, or you are tagged in. While having a few pictures of yourself with a drink in your hand is okay, too many photos of drinks in your hand will have your potential employer thinking you’re a party animal. When posting a new image ask yourself, "Would I want my boss to see this?" Clean up and delete any images you don't feel are appropriate.

Complaining about past jobs Putting your complaints out there for the world to see is generally a pretty bad idea. Avoid saying negative things, but especially about your old job or boss. If a potential employer reads them they will quickly assume that one day you will be posting about them. This is an easy way to get passed over for an interview.

Posting Negative Comments Any comment meant to offend another person or group could cost you the job. Be sure to also avoid gossip, negativity, and just stay neutral. It can seem like a good idea to jump right in when other's are complaining, but don't give in!

Keep in mind that even if you've set your account(s) to the highest level of privacy, tagged photos, and other things can slip right through. A good rule to remember is that once you post something online it is there to stay! So, be mindful of what you have on your social media accounts now and in the future.