How to Market Yourself

Generally when we think of marketing something, we typically envision the product as a good, service or idea.  But what if the product is you?  The answer is quite simple.  You market yourself the same way you market anything else, with the four P's of marketing; product, price, place, and promotion.

Unlike most products on the market, there will be no commercials to show the interviewer what you bring to the table, so you yourself must serve as your own advertisement.  The best way to do this is to promote yourself with a good first impression.  Dress for the occasion with a suit and tie and make sure you are freshly groomed.  Be polite and speak with clear, formal language.  You only get one first impression in this scenario, so make sure you do it right.

Place also plays an important roll.  You can explain that your work will be exclusive coverage to their organization only.  You know that the organization is not going to move to you, so you can also explain your transportation.  Arriving on time is always a big factor in sustaining a job.  If you are lucky, maybe you live on a short distance away from your desired area of work.  These are all valuable pieces of information the organization wants to know.

Contrary to most marketing scenarios, in this case you do not set the price.  Now the marketing strategy becomes a little tricky.  However, it is good to have an idea as to what your work and knowledge is worth.  Depending on the situation, you should typically strive to be flexible with what they are willing to offer.  If you are looking at your dream job, perhaps you could settle for less than what you see yourself worth.  There are always future opportunities to work your way to a promotion.  In contrast, perhaps the organization offers you what you see as a fair salary, but maybe the job is not what you are looking for.  In this case it may be better to ask for a higher salary or politely decline.

Last and most important is the product itself, you.  It is important you let them know the quality of your work, special characteristics that make you more unique, your work ethic, and even your style.  This would be the time where you would lay down your resume.  Your college degree along with your GPA status is always important as well.  Perhaps you have held similar job titles in the past that you can reflect on and explain what you could do differently.  Also, always remember to put emphasis on your strengths.  If you are not very good at math, but very good at dealing with people, you should tell them such.  Maybe they have the perfect position lined up.  It is very important to just be yourself, nobody wants to buy a false product.  In order to successfully market yourself for present and for future, you must hold your integrity.