Have you ever wondered what kind of impression you put in place and leave each time you venture out into the world of social media? Are you mindful when presenting and representing your Personal Brand online? Are you aware that those hiring often visit these sites to look further into who you are through your words and thoughts on many subjects? If you haven’t yet thought about this as you step out into the professional world of opera and performance, it might be time to rethink what kind of impression you want to build.
I’m not saying that you have to change who or how you are in your private life, but social media is open to being looked at by everyone and anyone. I have heard from my circle of professionals that after having vetted a possible candidate for a specific role, using both the regular protocol avenues and social media, they often become concerned that there seems to be a disconnect between who you say you are and who you show yourself to be. Or put another way, it’s about any disparity between a candidate’s public and private thoughts and behaviors. This combination helps those hiring make their final cut.
I am often surprised by much of what I see online by those who are pursuing a career in the industry. They are so casual and careless with maintaining their Personal Brand. It doesn’t mean you can’t be who you are, but you do have to consider the consequences of what you post. It’s not like picking up the phone and talking to only the person you called. What you post is there for everyone to peruse and pick through. It’s often sophomoric and would and does sometimes put me off and confuse me as well.
Being a great candidate for getting hired is not just about a beautiful voice and great stage presence. It’s also about how you will behave with your colleagues and management. No company has the time, energy or money to deal with a difficult, insecure, demanding, unprofessional, unstable or vengeful personality. No company wants to worry about a possible drinking or drug problem. This is a business. This is about you selling a consistent product. It’s about doing your job as you present and represent your Brand at every turn. So pay attention and care about what you put out there for all the world to see. It does matter.
Now you know what I think, let me know what you think? Avanti and ciao until next time. Carol
