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How to market myself better

Veteran

Brian Pulido Universal City, TX

Hello all,

I just retired recently this past month. I am having issues looking for a job in the IT field, specifically Network Administrator or Cybersecurity Analyst roles. I have experience in Network Administration and a TS/SCI, but not finding the positions out there. I have a lot of friends tell me that it's more about who you know versus what I know. I have been trying through LinkedIn to network with other companies and cold calling some of these companies. Are there any other avenues I can try?

Thank you for the assistance.

14 March 2019 1 reply Career Advancement

Answers

Advisor

Chad Eaves Barrington, IL

Hi Brian,

A couple of suggestions I hope you find helpful. Some of these might seem a little in left field for an IT guy (I am a recovering IT consultant), but give them a thought.

You are not your resume. Or your social media profile. What I mean by this is you need to meet people in person.

Being in IT, you probably know resumes are converted into database records and your fortunes rest on scoring high enough with an algorithm.

Your presence is going to be your best marketing tool. Go to networking events. Join a trade or community/civic organization. And keep going to events.

If you are unsure about the effectiveness of your presence, consider joining a Toastmasters club - it about more than just speaking.

One last thought, think about how you can make it so people look for and want to know you. Submit articles to the leading blogs in your industry. Offer to speak for free using your expertise.

Doing these things could give you an edge over a competitor who only does IT work - the more skills a person has, the more attractive they become.

If you have any questions let me know. Good luck in your search, Brian!

Chad

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