Blogging Seminar at re:Create

Well, re:Create is in full swing, and the blogosphere is definitely alive and well. If you're at all interested and want to know what you are missing, go visit any one of these blogs - they're all blogging from location:

Ethos
John
Rich
Carlos
Justin
Chad
Bethany
Nathan
Pat
Mark
Whittaker Woman
Bobby

I'll be popping in and out throughout the week as there's plenty for me to do work-wise before I go on my first cruise next week (and we get paid to go - what a sweet deal!). During the blog seminar on Monday, someone asked this question:

"Why should I blog?"

Well, the answer is really simple: in this, the Free Agent Nation (author: Daniel Pink... get it, read it, live it) we live in, your blog will often act as your resume. Employers these days are looking at blogs, MySpace sites, Facebook profiles, and all sorts of other places online to find out about their potential hires. So be aware - not only do your friends and family read your blog, but quite possibly your current or future boss and co-workers.

Fast Company has a couple of articles on their website that talk about the importance of your blog and being aware of what you're putting out there for the world to see. Here are two articles of interest:

Use Online Networks to Find Your Star Employee
Joblogging (if you're going to read one, read this one)

If you don't have the time to read an article, here's some brief pointers from David Teten and Scott Allen's Joblogging article:

"Here are a few simple do's and dont's to keep in mind:

  * A blog is forever. Even if you delete or edit a post, many people will have already read it and possibly commented on it, and an archive of it may be available in many other places. If there's any possible negative consequence of something you might post, it's best left in your head.

  * Make sure that all your posts are technically accurate. It's much better to err on the side of fewer, higher-quality blog posts, than many blog posts that do not represent you well.

  * Be "personally professional." Blogs are by their nature informal and personal. If you're overly formal, you may not connect well with other bloggers or potential readers. On the other hand, venturing off into every dark corner of your life may not sit well with prospective employers.

  * Don't list your blog on your résumé unless it is relevant. If you're seeking employment as a risk management analyst, list your economics blog if you have one, but not your political rant blog.

  * Make sure your blog is reasonably attractive and presentable. It is part of your personal appearance every bit as much as your résumé, your clothes, or your hygiene and grooming.

  * Read and connect with other job search and recruiter bloggers. You can get relevant, current tips to help with your job search, share leads with others in the same and similar fields as you, and connect with recruiters who specialize in the type of jobs you are seeking. Use your blog both to build and leverage your network.

Comments

[Brody Harper]

Just dropping in to say hi. I have read this blog a bunch but never commented. By the way I think your blog is reasonably attractive and presentable.

[bobby]

Yeah, I'd love to connect. I'll try to keep an eye out for you...if I can identify you. ;)

[Normal Rockstar]

Hey Bobby! Link love for sure, my friend - I'll add you right away. We're not playing at re:Create this week, actually - I just get to hang out and catch what I can. But hey - let's talk, 'cause we're comin' out to CA this spring and I'd love to hook up with you out there! Later...

[bobby]

Hey there.

1. I'm on location too. Link Love maybe?

2. I didn't know you were a part of downhere...

3. I didn't know y'all were playing here! I love you guys. I cought you like 5 or 6 years ago opening for Sonic Flood in Point Loma and was hooked. Can't wait to hear y'all this week!