Strengthen Your Brand!
Before interviewing candidates, one of the first things an employer will likely do is Google your name. Thus, having a strong online presence is essential for personal branding. While platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook are popular because users freely contribute content, owning your content on platforms like Financial Samurai, where I am the primary content creator, offers distinct advantages.
If you’re serious about job opportunities, creating a LinkedIn profile is crucial as it has become the go-to resource for employers. But why stop there? I advocate going a step further by registering your own domain name and setting up a dynamic personal website. This will distinguish you significantly through your initiative and creativity.
Own Your Online Presence
When you Google your name, what do you see? For most, their social media profiles appear. But this means companies other than you own your name online. By creating your own site, you control how you appear in search results. This was why I chose not to create a Financial Samurai Facebook page initially—I wanted to build my community on my own site rather than contribute to Facebook’s traffic.
Owning your brand means full control over your content and how it’s presented, from layout to security, without adhering to another platform’s restrictions.
How to Create and Strengthen Your Personal Website
If the idea of regular blogging like Financial Samurai seems daunting, don’t worry. Your site doesn’t need to be blog-heavy; it can be a static site that highlights your professional achievements and personal interests, helping you land great jobs or consulting gigs. People want to see who you are before they work with you.
Starting with a free WordPress-hosted site is fine, but registering a “yourname.com” appears more professional. Here are some essential elements to include on your site:
1. About Page: This should welcome visitors with your photo, a bio, and links to your resume, professional work, or blogs.
2. Resume Page: Make your resume dynamic by linking to your past work, articles, or companies.
3. Photo Album: Include professional group photos and candid shots of your hobbies and volunteer work to give a rounded picture of your personality and work ethic.
4. Thought Leadership: Share your expertise in your field. Avoid divisive topics and focus on professional insights that position you as a knowledgeable figure.
5. Contact Information: Make it easy for potential employers or partners to contact you by listing your email, phone number, and professional profiles.
The Importance of Your Web Presence
In today’s digital world, nearly every place has Wi-Fi, making it easier than ever to manage your online presence. By taking the initiative to create a well-rounded website, you signal to employers and collaborators that you are a proactive and creative professional. This can lead to more opportunities and potentially a more fulfilling career path.
Blogging as a Business
Starting FinancialSamurai.com was one of the best decisions I ever made. It allowed me to become independent much sooner than expected and connect with incredible people globally. Don’t wait for a perfect moment like I did—starting a website today is easier than ever with plenty of online resources to help you.
Owning your online brand opens up numerous possibilities, from consulting gigs to new job opportunities. Every day, I appreciate the freedom that Financial Samurai has brought me. If you’re interested in starting your own blog, there are easy tutorials that can get you up and running in no time.
For more personal finance tips and insights, consider signing up for exclusive content on platforms where I share more extensive knowledge. Owning and managing your online presence is an empowering step toward taking control of your professional image and opportunities.
