Blog your way to a job?

Since late 2007, I’ve been actively maintaining this blog. Though I don’t write every day, nor have a set schedule, I’d like to think that people are out there reading what I write. If something I’ve posted makes you laugh, sparks your interest, or gives you something to think about, I’ve done my job.

So if I have done my job, maybe you’ll come back again. Maybe you’ll add my RSS feed into your favorite feed reader. Maybe you’ll even be inspired to write something on your own. Maybe you’ll even think about hiring me.

Lance Haun of Your HR Guy.com explains, “The real value of blogging isn’t the content I create… The real value are the connections I make and the things I learn and apply to make myself better.”

Since I’ve started blogging (and tweeting), I feel as though I’ve learned a lot about myself, and about my trade (creative/marketing). Better yet, I’ve formed relationships with a lot of interesting and friendly people (yes, they are out there). Recently, some of these folks have even gone out of their way to re-tweet to their network of friends that I’m (currently) looking to relocate to the Boston area.

So why is this all important? Haun goes on to say,

“The principles that people use to get ahead are the same now as they have been for the last half century (if not longer). Sharing good ideas, helping people around you succeed, being a decent person and doing what you say you’ll do? That still works in social media and its impact is bigger than ever because the amount of people you can connect with is… well… a lot.”

Haun also mentions that these relationships just don’t happen overnight- you can’t just expect to start blogging on Monday and have the job offers pour in by Wednesday. Form relationships, cultivate them, and write about what you know; become an expert. Get out there and get involved- you might be surprised where your next job, customer, or friend will come from.

To my “virtual” friends who are out there spreading some good old-fashioned word-of-mouth niceness on my behalf, please know that I am deeply appreciative to have your support.