As I continue to work with clients on their resumes, I have many conversations about building a personal brand.  Today technology offers lots of options as you are building your personal brand.  Similar to every company, you have a reputation.  You must manage this reputation so that people’s opinions of you are positive.  Since it is so easy to Google anyone, why not be proactive and control what people see about you?

 Here are some possible ideas:

• Create a two minute video of YOUR elevator pitch.  Place this on your website, LinkedIn profile or add it to your resume submission.  Check out VisualCV for a more dynamic resume than the typical paper version.  Add your video to this online resume, too.
• Prepare for a Skype interview.  Gone are the days of only in-person interviews.  More and more, companies are completing their interviews with Skype.  Make sure you know the technology and more importantly, control the environment.  In other words, practice speaking into a web camera and take a look at the background; make sure lighting is flattering and any personal items or clutter is removed.
• Consider publishing a blog.  It is a great way to stay visible and to establish yourself as an expert in your field.
• Examine your profile picture.  Professionalism is key.  In other words, it better not be a picture from the latest party you attended!  (Unless you are a party planner, of course).
• Join conversations.  LinkedIn has thousands of established groups.  Join groups that make sense for your brand and answer questions, post relevant information and establish yourself as a “go to” person.  Facebook also allows you to create brand pages.  Just make sure that what you start, you keep up with and post current information on a regular basis.

These are just a few ideas.  There are many more so get busy.  And get branding!