Master personal branding and the secrets of Search

By: Kevin Lamsback, Staffing Consultant 

Personal branding and Search: How does this help you land a job at Microsoft, you ask?  Good question. 

In this post, I will map out a three-step formula for you that will increase your chances tenfold.  However, it comes with a disclaimer: “This formula requires work.” So if you are not really, really, serious about Microsoft, no need to read any further.

1. You have to be proactive in using social media to your advantage. 

When it comes to personal branding via your social network, as the saying goes, “content is king.”  You’ve got to know your audience.  People on LinkedIn, for example, don’t really care whether you just grabbed the world’s best caramel macchiato at the corner coffee shop (then again, I’m not sure if anyone really cares…but to each his own, I digress). 

Start by paying attention to the days of the week your social network is most active and make a note of it.  Next, find an interesting article that isn’t getting much airtime, then post it during peak social-networking times.  This simple technique will increase your reach, bolster your brand and attract attention to yourself.

Remember, be sure your information is current, descriptive and readily available.  Don’t just wait for a recruiter to call you about the perfect role, be proactive and get out there and network. 

2. Do your research.

Here at Microsoft we see resumes from a lot of applicants … so prepare yourself for a social introduction by doing your homework.  Research our openings by accessing our Careers site online, then thoroughly vet the openings that look like a fit.  Hint: Pay particular attention to the “requirements” section.

Once you’ve identified those ideal roles, research the groups or organizations that they are a part of. For instance: CSS (Customer Service and Support), PFE (Premier Field Engineering), corporate headquarters, Bing, Xbox, and so on.

3. Use the Search feature.

Run a variety of simple searches using the search function on LinkedIn to look for recruiting contacts within the organization you’ve identified.  Example: “Microsoft” and “recruiter” are two good keywords to get you started. Drill down based on the organization research you conducted in the last step. 

Note:  If you can’t find the exact recruiter who supports the group in question, the next best option is to start connecting with any of our recruiters/staffing consultants. Be sure to keep your message short and concise while including the position number(s) you’re interested in. This shows you’ve done your homework and you’re not just throwing stuff against the wall to see what sticks.

If you are in the introduction phase, do NOT just send a resume with a one-liner saying, “Let me know if you have anything.” This = ‘Delete button’ in the recruiting world.

So, if you want to take ownership of your career and get proactive about Microsoft, give this approach a shot and see how it works! Start searching for your next exciting role. If you never envisioned yourself at Microsoft, you’re not alone… Check out Jack’s surprising story about taking a leap of faith here.

If you want more ‘how-to’ build-your-skills advice, here’s why personal branding matters. And learn more about how to represent yourself.

By: Michelle Feder

1. DON’T speak in the passive language. DO use words that show impact.

Rewrite statements that convey any trace of back-seat driving. Instead: Amplify your leadership experience. “When I’m reviewing a resume I’ll sometimes take caution when someone suggests that they played the role of an almost passive observer, less involved in leading solutions to challenges,” says Anthony, a university recruiter.

“Words such as maintained, contributed, helped, and participated make it difficult to understand your unique contribution,” Anthony says.  “Even when you’re a team member of many, there’s always something that you’re likely tasked with leading.  It’s easier for me to imagine the impact you’ll be able to make when you share what you personally delivered.” 

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By Sandeep Sood

When it comes to balancing work and life, including a rewarding, impactful professional role, can women have it all? YES, says recruiter Sandeep Sood, who has hired hundreds of women in tech over 14 years, after his own five-year career in engineering. In Sandeep’s own words, as we get ready to celebrate Mother’s Day, here’s why we need more women at Microsoft:

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