Are You a Jobseeker or a Brand?
I missed last week’s newsletter because I was in Edinburgh, immersed in its history and charm. Every corner had a story. Edinburgh isn’t just a city—it’s a brand. It stands out. And it got me thinking: job seekers need their own brand to stand out too.
Just like Edinburgh, you need more than a name on a resume. You need to define what makes you unique and valuable. In this week’s newsletter, I’ll show you how shifting your mindset from job seeker to brand can change everything. It’s the same shift that helped me land my job at AWS, and it can help you stand out, too.
Why bother? Because brands get noticed. When you present yourself as a brand, you’re not just another set of skills—you’re a solution. A unique, memorable solution that companies need.
Unfortunately...most people never make this shift. They stick to the old playbook: apply to jobs, hope someone sees their worth, and repeat. That’s where it all goes wrong.
Why Most People Stay Stuck
They Don’t Know Their Worth: They think they’re replaceable. But you’re not—you’re a unique asset.
The Resume Trap: They think a resume tells the whole story. It doesn’t—it’s just a list.
They Struggle to Articulate Their Edge: Most people can’t clearly define what sets them apart, so they blend in.
They Play by the Job Descriptions: Just meeting requirements isn’t enough. Brands create demand.
They Let Others Define Their Story: They don’t own their narrative. But your brand is yours—it’s time to take control.
Now, here comes the good part. You can flip the script and become the brand that companies chase. Here’s how.
Step 1: Define Your Unique Value
Figure out what sets you apart. What can you offer that others can’t? List your top strengths and the impact you’ve made. Don’t just list skills—focus on how you’ve used them to create change. This clarity is your launchpad.
When I made this shift, I realized my teaching wasn’t just about classrooms—it was about leading and simplifying complex ideas. That’s how I landed my role at AWS.
Step 2: Craft Your Brand Story
Your brand isn’t your resume; it’s your narrative. Connect your skills and experiences into a story that shows why you matter. Keep it simple and true.
Most people miss this by just listing jobs. Don’t do that. Show the ‘why’ behind what you do. For instance, instead of just saying I led trainings, I highlighted how I cut onboarding time and boosted team efficiency. That’s a story that sticks.
Step 3: Showcase Your Brand
Now, put your brand out there. Update your LinkedIn, share insights, or create a simple portfolio. Your brand needs visibility. Social media isn’t just for fun—it’s your stage.
The payoff? When you think of yourself as a brand, you don’t just apply for jobs—you create opportunities. Doors open, conversations happen, and jobs start finding you.
Want more? My upcoming course, Job Search OS, will guide you through this shift step by step. It’s not just about finding any job—it’s about landing the right one, just like I did.
Remember, you’re not just a job seeker. You’re a brand. Own it.
