3 New Rules of Work to Advance Your Career

3 New Rules of Work to Advance Your Career3 New Rules of Work to Advance Your CareerThe founders of The Muse have a message for you the world of work has changed dramatically over the past few decades, so you need to learn new rules to navigate it. Fortunately, theyve written a book that just launched in April- The New Rules of Work The Modern Playbook for Navigating Your Career- to show you how.I spoke with Kathryn Minshew, one of The Muses founders, about three main job search strategies that she describes in The New Rules of Work (coauthored by cofounder Alexandra Cavoulacos). Read on to learn how professionals in any industry can improve networking skills, establish a personal brand, and leverage social media to get ahead in this brave new world of work.Here are three new rules of work to advance your career1. Take what you think you know about networking and break it.Minshew emphasized the importance of what she terms nuanced networking for todays job seekers. In many ways, beca use of the ease of access to professional networks via social media, expectations for networking have increased, said Minshew. Its not just about the conference circuit or large industry events, but about more casual, more frequent, and less formal interactions.She suggested that any way that you can meet new people- and then foster that connection- is a great start to building your network. The new networking is not about instant gratification, or expecting someone you meet to help get you a job by tomorrow, said Minshew. Once youve formed an alliance online- whether through a Twitter interaction, Facebook group, or introductory email- follow through with additional invitations to continue the dialogue, in person when possible and through social media. It takes time to build trust and long-term relationships.2. Know that branding isnt just for products anymore.In addition to changing networking rules, social media has upped the ante for job seekers in terms of positioning themselve s competitively in the market. Employers want to hire people who have a strong sense of self and can articulate clearly what they bring to the table, explained Minshew. Personal branding is the way not only to stand out with recruiters and hiring managers, but also to establish yourself as an expert in your field. She suggested beginning by determining your brand attributes three or four descriptors that hold the key to your personal brand. Your descriptors should hone in on what is most memorable about you, she said. Once youve identified those attributes, you can spin them into a powerful branding statement to use across all of your job search materials.3. Step up your job search tactics with savvy social media use.Todays job seekers have many more options than just looking at job boards for opportunities. Minshew stressed the importance of being proactive by using online platforms and tools to help you find openings. You may already be effectively using LinkedIn to identify possi ble positions, but the smartest approach is to combine several strategies, she said. In addition to having your existing social networks help you locate jobs, you can also rely on social sites and career platforms (yes, The Muse is one of them) to help you keep tabs on your dream companies. Plus, you can continue job searches online and tap your network for referrals and introductions.As a job seeker, you have more to master than ever to increase your chances of landing the position you want. But with some extra effort and proactive planning, you can master the new rules of work and come out ahead in your career.Start Your Job Search