A branding guy thinks out loud

Marketing people (and I include branding people among them) have an unfortunately well earned reputation as being people that only care about the surface of things. Of logos, messaging, promotions, packaging, and presence.

I come at branding from a simple core philosophy. The strongest brands have a coherent and consistent BEING and DOING at their core. That's not to say what you say and how you say it isn't important. It is. But it's secondary to what you do and how you do it and WHY you do it.

More on this another time.

-Duane

Agenda for 3/29/2013

Using Linkedin to discover your strengths and weaknesses.

Linkedin is a powerful platform for career developers.
Use it to research industries, organizations, positions, and individuals.
Compare your value proposition to those holding the positions you want.
Compare your value proposition to those competing with you for the positions you want.
Discover the credentials and experiences the marketplace values.

Following up on the positioning discussion from the last couple weeks we're going to explore the number one career research tool out there: Linkedin

DISCUSSION TOPIC:  "What can I do with Linkedin? (And how can I do it?)"

The stupid things that sabotage your job hunt.

Thought I'd share an interesting and controversial article from over on LifeHacker-

If you've ever hired anyone for a job, you understand a whole new perspective on what makes an applicant stand out—and what makes you toss an application to the bin. Fair or not, blogger, consultant, and hirer Charlie Balmer discusses honestly what he feels are the mistakes that can ruin your chances with a potential employer. (Be sure to also check out the comments.) 

Article: "Why I Won't Hire You"

Are you grateful?

Thought for the day.

If you haven't seen this before this video is well worth your time.

The Butterfly Circus 

Try this exercise for fun and insight.