Wildfire Effect (WE) Social Media and Transmedia Consulting

Does 2011 mean finding the right work for you? In this day, the limited format of a paper resume does not define all that you offer.  Get creative to stand out.  Use the internet tools to do it.

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A few years ago I created an online place to feature my strengths in a way that was unique to me. http://stephaniescottvanc.wordpress.com/ I started with a simple wordpress site, added a portfolio and blog posts that told the story behind my accomplishments.   It was an innovative idea in it’s day but in 2011 more and more people are using the internet to take control of their personal image. Here are a few simple online tools that will help you take control. Watch for a future post on Tactics to use these tools to step ahead.

• Linkedin Labs- Resume Builder, lets you convert your Linkedin profile into a more traditional resume that can be shared on Social networks or printed. The strength is in the easy templates which are customized to the type of job you are applying to. It tells you which areas of your Linkedin profile need to emphasis and is a free addition.
• Amoung many other features, Gist creates a personal profile page that links to your online spaces and offers a place for a a feature photo (perhaps your friendly headshot) and a one paragraph summary of yourself.  Best yet it fits on one screen no scrolling.  Added to this powerhouse is how Gist aggregates over 60,000 news sources, 20 million blogs, and content feeds across social networks with your latest correspondance to keep you current with what is being said about your contacts. Know exactly what to say when you get your that 1st face to face opportunity. Pricing $0(Beta) will add a  pricing strategy.
• SnapPages, a website builder  to create ‘resume websites’.  It is simple to use and very versatile.  The social network integration and capability to add a blog takes my previous site,  graphically to a level beyond what a blog can deliver.  I wish I knew of it then.  Pricing $0-$30/month.
• JobSpice allows you to create and edit your resume from scratch or create one with a template.  It also offers a instant message help area.  We all know how difficult resume writing can be, having someone to answer your questions is essential.  In 2011, and beyond, it is essential to have an online option and with this free tool you can create an online space for your resume or post it to Twitter or Facebook.
• About.me profile creates a one page site that links to many of your online profiles.  It’s strongest feature is the focus on one image, one brief summary, one message.  The amount of information you can post is limited but the built in analytics is useful although not as detailed as many free additions to sites that you control.  Currently, about.me is a free service.
• .Tel For the cost of a domain (which ranges between $12 – $25/ year on this date) you can reserve a space on the internet to house all of your phone numbers, social networks, websites and whatever the future brings us.  Creating this virtual landing hub is a trend that is growing in popularity.  If you are serious about your personal Brand you may want to consider the investment before your name is taken.
• Emurse helps you create your traditional resume, house it online and offers the tools you need to make it stand out.  The key factor on this site is the access to resources.  What it the medium salary in your industry?  Access to resume building tips.  Job postings in your category. Access to career-building forums.   Its a one-stop-shop for learning and improving.  Free for you.

DON’T FORGET:  The versatility of a blog site, with customization and integration with social networks improving every day you can create something that as is individual as you are.  WordPress, Blogger, Google Sites, Tumbler, Typepad… the options are endless.  Here’s one  review site to give you a quick overview:http://blog-services-review.toptenreviews.com/