Today’s job market is very competitive, and being seen as just another candidate will not work. So, if you want to stand out, you must position yourself as an expert in your field. But how do you do that when you’re looking for a job? If you are currently seeking employment, this post is for you. The good news is, you don’t have to wait until you’re hired to build your credibility. Here’s how you can present yourself as the go-to person in your industry, even while searching for a new job.
1. Leverage Your Personal Brand
First things first. Your personal brand is how others see you, and it’s especially important when you’re positioning yourself as an expert. Assess your online and offline presence. Update your LinkedIn profile and other social media you’re on. Review and update your personal website or online portfolio to reflect your expertise. Highlight your accomplishments, unique skills, and relevant experience.
If you’ve done any public speaking, consulting, or mentoring, make sure that’s front and center. Let your profile tell the story of a seasoned expert rather than a job seeker. Focus on sharing how you’ve made a difference and what you’ve offered versus what you can offer with no proof.
Pro Tip: Make sure you quantify your accomplishments (i.e. “I headed the X project responsible for increasing company sales by 125%.). Do not embellish (code: lie). It’s easy to confirm the numbers.
2. Create and Share Content
Start sharing your knowledge! Whether it’s through blog posts, LinkedIn articles, or even short videos, creating content establishes you as a thought leader. Talk about industry trends, best practices, or unique insights you’ve gained from your experiences. The more valuable content you provide, the more you’re seen as someone who knows what they’re talking about.
Pro Tip: Don’t wait for the perfect post. Start small, even with quick tips or answering frequently asked questions in your field. The key is consistency. Also, make sure you grammar check your posts.
3. Engage in Industry Conversations
Join online groups, forums, or networks relevant to your industry. Engage in conversations by offering helpful advice, sharing your experiences, or asking thoughtful questions. LinkedIn groups, Reddit, and industry-specific platforms are great places to start. When you regularly contribute to conversations, others will start seeing you as a knowledgeable and approachable expert.
Pro Tip: Consider creating your own group on platforms, such as Facebook, LinkedIn, or other platform. If this is something you choose to do, make sure you maintain by keeping your group engaged- posting consistently and interacting with participants.
4. Network Strategically
Although networking can help you find a job, I encourage you to view networking as an opportunity to build relationships. Connect with industry leaders, peers, and influencers, who share your interests, and who you can learn from and share your insights. Attend virtual or in-person events where you can meet others in your field.
Pro Tip: Focus on offering value first—this could be a relevant article, insight, or introducing them to someone else. Positioning yourself as a helpful resource naturally elevates your status as an expert.
5. Take the Stage—Literally and Figuratively
Speaking engagements, webinars, and podcasts are fantastic platforms for showcasing your expertise. Many industries hold webinars or live discussions that need guest speakers—volunteer! If you’re not comfortable with live public speaking yet, start with podcasts or even create your own video series. It’s easier now than ever! Not only does this build your authority, but it also helps grow your network.
Pro Tip: Create your social media channel focusing on your area of expertise. Make sure you show your personality (keep it professional). If videos aren’t your thing, consider writing. Platforms such as Medium and Substack are easy to start.
6. Stay Current with Certifications and Continuing Education
You don’t have to wait to be employed to grow your expertise. Earn relevant certifications or attend workshops to stay updated with industry standards. Adding new skills and credentials to your resume shows you’re dedicated to mastering your field. Plus, certifications can give you fresh content ideas to share and position you as a constantly evolving professional.
Pro Tip: Staying current in your skills is an excellent way to stay hireable. Coursera, EdX, even Udemy can keep you updated on new skills in your industry. Also, joining your industry associations will give you access to training while keeping you current in the state of the industry.
7. Offer to Help—For Free
One way to quickly establish yourself as an expert is to solve problems for others. Offer free advice, coaching, or consulting in your area of expertise. It could be answering questions in forums, hosting a free workshop, or helping someone in your network with a project. When people see your skills in action, they’ll associate you with solutions, not just theories.
8. Ask for Recommendations
A strong recommendation from someone credible in your field speaks volumes. Don’t be afraid to ask previous colleagues, clients, or mentors to write LinkedIn recommendations highlighting your expertise. Testimonials from others reinforce your authority and validate that you are indeed an expert in your area.
Pro Tip: Consider saving your performance reviews. You can integrate those comments into your resume, LinkedIn, and other areas. Depending on the company, you may need to ask permission to use the comments in public. Also, make sure you collect recommendation letters/emails throughout your career, so if you leave a company abruptly, you’re not trying to gather this information after the fact.
Become the Expert You Already Are
Positioning yourself as an expert while looking for work involves showcasing your skills, sharing your knowledge, and being visible where it matters most. By taking these steps, you’ll stand out from other job seekers and build a positive reputation that follows you throughout your career.
Most importantly, I want you to remember you always have options. If you’re seeking a job, you don’t have to be at the mercy of others. When you position yourself as an expert, you will see your value in what you offer the world, but I pray you also see that you don’t have to settle for whatever. There is a lot of noise about how bad the economy or the job market is, but when you serve a God who has promised to never leave or fail you, you know you don’t have to compromise your values to survive.
Finally, your expertise is about how you share what you know and apply that knowledge to help others. We all have something special we can offer the world.
So, start today, and before long, you’ll be seen as a go-to authority in your field—whether you’ve secured the job yet or not!
