I will tell you this: personal branding can backfire.
When I moved to Lethbridge ten years ago and people asked me what I did for a living, I told them I designed websites.
It worked.
I had several people come to me for web design advice, and I even had a few clients.
Fast forward to today.
Anyone who reads this blog will know I have been trying to get out of my current job. There’s no future in this position.
I know of a prime opportunity at the university. It’s under development, but should be posted soon. It’s prime because it would allow me to use my talents, skills and experience outside of web design, would provide me with industry-independent experience, and will position me for future opportunities.
There’s one problem. No one seems to realize I have skills beyond web design. Nearly everyone I’ve talked to who is involved in this position doesn’t understand why, as a web developer, I would want to apply for it.
I tried changing my personal branding about two years ago to take as much emphasis as possible off of web design. While it did make a difference to many people, it missed the people who need it today.
What does this mean?
It means I have had to work the hardest I have ever worked to apply for a position.
I sent letters of intent during the development of the position outling my relevant skills and experience. I sent them to at least four people involved in the process.
I have amassed at least half a dozen reference letters confirming the skills and experience I claimed.
I personally visited with one of the persons involved in the development to discuss why I would be a good fit.
I just hope this extra effort pays off. Just sending mycresume won’t suffice given how much prejudice exists regarding my skills.
