Why blogging is a worthwhile pastime for jobseekers

Want to nail that graduate marketing job? Having a strong online presence is a key part of the marketing mix for startups and smaller companies. It is a vital ingredient for growing a business, so why not impress a potential employer by demonstrating your digital abilities in your own time? Maintaining a blog is actually easier than you might think, but it takes some commitment and careful thought process.
 
At its most basic level blogging is a vehicle to demonstrate your written skills and personality. I hate to break it to you, but not many people want to read your dissertation on microbial genomes – instead, try blogging interesting and compelling content as a way to get future employers interested in your writing (and then, if you still feel the need, maybe introduce the dissertation a few months into your working relationship).

break-v2

Blogging also gives you a chance to showcase your personal interests and demonstrate your knowledge on a subject. A CV only gives you a page or two to tell a potential employer about yourself, while directing them to your blog extends that time in a more carefully considered way. And if you happen to blog about something that might be relevant to the job roles you are applying for, then that gets bonus points and can be the key to finding your way into a paid internship rather than another stint in retail. (Note: we think retail jobs are an amazing way to get experience dealing with tricky customers!)

 
Networking is another plus. If you are committed to building your online network, then start replying to comments, following like-minded bloggers and just generally getting your name out there. Being responsive and insightful towards others online is just one step away from being engaging in person and this is easily highlighted on your blog.

break-v2

Working to a schedule, creating compelling content on cue, and publicising it online are skills that need practice and are high in demand. Being able to pull creativity out of thin air is required of bloggers on a daily basis, so hone this ability and you will be at the top of the list for employers.
 
Just be sure to keep your blog posts current, well-researched and centred on a topic relevant to the industry to want to progress into and guaranteed you will stand out from the crowd.

Want to put your skills into practice? BrighterBox has loads of roles on their site for graduates wanting to work at startups. Search ‘BrighterBox jobs’.