So, OK we all know we need to be on LinkedIn, but how else as an E-Commerce professional can you raise your profile? What should you do to subtly boost your credentials to attract key decision makers or to position yourself correctly to ensure that you are receiving calls from quality headhunters?When we at Gamble & Yeates roll our sleeves up and research the market for a new search assignment, we use a number of methods to ensure we don't miss the talent. We read the trade press- a lot. When was the last time you or your company were mentioned in Retail Week, Drapers, The Grocer, Retail Jeweller, Internet Retailing etc?
Being in the press is not just about seeing your name in print. If your company has a positive story to tell such as "LFL sales up 40%" or "New Mobile App launched with positive results", we will find you whether you are the Social Media Manager or the ECommerce Director. We know only too well that our clients like us to headhunt professionals that, along with their own merits, have come from a success story. Contact your PR department with any press releases you can or if you have no PR function get in touch with the trade press directly- they thrive on new and interesting market information.
Hiring Managers and headhunters will ask high profile professionals for a steer on certain individuals and ask for recommendations. Ask yourself who are the 3 most successful people I have worked with in the past and who also know my capabilities? STAY IN TOUCH! Don't forget to catch up every 6-12 months, not only will they think of you for potential roles in their organisation but they will be speaking to a number of headhunters to whom they can recommend you.
Search the net for networking evenings in your field. A big hint would be to look at smaller networking events that are just starting out as they are always in need of a speaker or two, and once you have spoken for 10 minutes at a small intimate gathering of like minded professionals you will be surprised at which future events you are invited to speak. Be warned- whoever your audience are, make sure you know your topic very well, pass on useful information and always invite differences of opinion! EG
*Next time I'll be sharing advice on how to get yourself noticed on LinkedIn
