Being stuck in an entry-level job is discouraging, but there are ways to use the tools you use everyday to help you get a promotion and put your career into high gear. Especially if you have spent four years earning a degree, getting to a place in your career where you can actually earn enough money to support yourself and pay back your student loans is important.
One of the best ways to stand out is to use the power of the Internet to create your own niche. Start a blog, a YouTube channel or just use social media to show that you know how to get things done. All you need is a computer and some great idea.
Not sure where to start? Here are a few ideas:
Show off your knowledge - The goal is to show that you have the skills and ideas that would make you an asset to any company. You can do this by starting a blog about your industry or just a portion of it that you are passionate about. Write about the things you care about and promote your website. It will show an employer that you spend time actively thinking about your industry and will demonstrate your quality of work, your ability to self-motivate and will impress them more than a resume filled with entry-level experience.
Demonstrate that you can get results - Market your website and work to build a strong network. This will show an employer that you understand how results are measured and that you are ambitious enough to get them. For example, if you want to be a writer, pitch your ideas online and work to get published. If you are passionate about something in your industry, consider making a YouTube video about it. Who knows, it could go viral and, before you know it, you will have companies contacting you for work instead of the other way around.
Embrace social media - If you get involved with social media, you won't have to worry as much about attending networking events. Get active on Twitter and connect with others. You can find people who have the jobs you want and ask them how they got there. You'd be surprised how many people would be willing to help you out and give you very valuable advice. The key is to listen to everyone, because you never know when someone you thought wasn't important will be the person who gives you the break you were hoping for.
What do you do to stand out? Do you have a blog or website that has helped your career? Please share your thoughts in the comments.
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