Pinterest. Instagram. Tumblr. These sites have been taking over the Internet in the last year or so. From wedding planning to fashion to interesting architecture and everything in between, all of us have been telling the stories of things we love via visuals. I’ve always been a visual learner. I took notes in school and now in the working world (despite the presentation being available afterward) so I could see the words on paper. And I learn better by doing something rather than simply being instructed. That’s why I love visual blogs like Brit + Co. and The Beauty Department that really give a how-to by way of photos. And I’m constantly inspired by my friends on Instagram and Pinterest to recreate a smoothie recipe or outfit idea. Which brought me to thinking about my professional life. Sure, I read articles, attend webinars and conferences, network, and participate in industry organizations. All of which help me grow and learn. But there’s just something about seeing great work or words that really inspire me. The same goes for the job search. You can apply to 100 jobs, but what’s your goal? What are your passions? And how can those help your career?
From the sites listed above, following are a few simple ways to have visuals help you in the job search (and current job motivation) process.
Tumble into action
Tumblr is perfect for quick bursts of inspiration. Do a search for “career” tags, and you instantly see interview tips, motivational quotes, and others in your shoes just blogging about their experiences. You can even see what’s happening in your town in terms of networking events. One of my favorite accounts is the NYC PR Girls page. Just follow the tags that you’re interested in (type of industry, city, what type of accounts you’d like to work on, etc.) and you’ll be on your way to immediate encouragement. (It’s also a great way to network.)
Pin to motivation
I’m basically planning my entire wedding (thanks, secret boards!) on Pinterest, but I also started another secret board for all things work-related as a PR pro. Basically, when I see an article that I think my clients could be in (or at least benefit from), I pin it to my board. Yes, I bookmark these articles too, but re-visiting this board from time-to-time helps me see these stories rather bookmarking and forgetting, and I am reminded of what it is and what I’m trying to accomplish, as well as give me ideas for future pitching. Looking for a job? Pin images of people in action to help motivate you. No, not stock imagery of men in suits shaking hands, but people in the industry you look up to. Think Jack Dorsey, Marissa Mayer or even those you see in your local business pub’s “40 under 40.” They can even be fictitious characters (I’m a big fan of Mary in The Mary Tyler Moore Show).
Instagram to insta-gain
Yes, Instagram is full of cats, food and nail art. However, it allows you to connect with those near and far in a fun way. Think about where you want to work. Let’s take an ad agency in your local area, for example. Are they on Instagram as a company? Follow and start liking. On a smaller scale, find folks who work there and follow them as well (easier to find if you find them on Twitter first). Start following and liking images that pique your interest. Just don’t “like” everything – you don’t want to be a stalker. You can find common connections (such as love for a sports team) and even see where they hang out and what networking events and conferences they attend. If they attend a monthly event, you know they’ll be there so you can attend and meet other professionals, too (again, just don’t be creepy!). And, like on Tumblr and Pinterest, Instagram can help motivate you when you see others in action (I’m a big fan of what Amy Jo Martin and Sarah Evans are bringing to the table).
Sure, Pinterest can’t write you a resume and Instagram can’t land you an interview, but sometimes we go through the motions of the job search so much, we forget what we’re passionate about and what we’re looking for. The same goes for our day-to-day work. So, before you begin your search (or improving your current situation), write down what you want, start looking for images and visuals that represent that, and you’ll spark a new motivation you may have been lacking before. Just like looking at a picture of someone buff in a bathing suit may motivate you to lose a few pounds before summer, looking at a logo of where you want to work (or the people who work there) can give you that extra bit of oomph you need to amplify the process and shake things up.
This post is part of HAPPO (Help a PR Pro Out). HAPPO is a movement that seeks to use social media to leverage relationships and help connect those seeking a job in the PR industry with employers. It’s led by co-founders Arik Hanson and Valerie Simon. Follow the #HAPPO hashtag on Twitter.