Imagine you’re hiring for a Marketing Analyst role at your company. After reviewing applications, you narrow it down to two candidates with similar qualifications. Both have the necessary education, experience, and skills.
Candidate A has a well-structured resume, a solid LinkedIn profile, and a strong work history that aligns with the role. Their previous positions demonstrate experience in market research, campaign analysis, and data-driven decision-making. Their references highlight their reliability and attention to detail.
Candidate B also has a well-organized resume and a strong LinkedIn presence. In addition to their professional experience, they run a blog where they analyze marketing trends, share case studies, and break down the effectiveness of various digital campaigns.
Both candidates are technically qualified, but Candidate B’s blog provides tangible proof of their knowledge and passion for marketing. It gives potential employers insight into how they think, their ability to communicate complex ideas, and their engagement with industry trends.
What is Professional Identity, and Why Does It Matter?
A professional identity is how you position yourself in your industry—what people associate with your name, how you contribute to conversations in your field, and the reputation you build over time.
According to a CareerBuilder survey, 70% of employers research candidates online before making hiring decisions. Another LinkedIn study found that professionals who actively engage with industry-related content and discussions are 10 times more likely to be noticed for job opportunities.
How to Build a Strong Professional Identity
1. Define What You Want to Be Known For
Before you start shaping your brand, take a step back and reflect:
- What are my strongest skills and expertise?
- What topics or industries excite me the most?
- What problems do I love solving?
- What do I want colleagues and employers to associate with my name?
Your professional identity should align with your skills, interests, and career aspirations. The clearer your focus, the easier it is to build a reputation around it.
2. Strengthen Your Online Presence
Since employers will likely search for you online, make sure what they find reflects your professional strengths.
- LinkedIn Profile: Ensure your summary, experience, and skills reflect your expertise. Engage with content related to your field.
- Personal Website or Portfolio: If applicable, create a space to showcase your work, case studies, or projects.
- Professional Blog or Industry Insights: If writing interests you, a blog (even an occasional one) can highlight your expertise, just like Candidate B’s did.
3. Engage with Industry Trends
Candidate B didn’t just list marketing skills on their resume—they actively discussed industry trends through their blog. You can demonstrate expertise by:
- Writing LinkedIn posts or articles about industry developments.
- Engaging in discussions by commenting on relevant content.
- Sharing insights from books, conferences, or projects you’ve worked on.
You don’t need to be an expert to share your thoughts. Even simple insights can position you as someone engaged in your field.
4. Build a Meaningful Network
Your professional brand isn’t just about how you present yourself—it’s also about who you connect with. Networking with intention can open up career opportunities and collaborations.
- Attend industry events, either in person or online.
- Connect with professionals in your field and engage in thoughtful discussions.
- Build relationships with mentors or peers who can offer insights and guidance.
Being visible in professional spaces can help you stay top-of-mind when new opportunities arise.
Final Thoughts
Your professional identity is an extension of your career. It’s what makes you recognizable, memorable, and trusted in your industry.
Both Candidate A and Candidate B were qualified for the job. But Candidate B provided additional proof of their skills, making it easier for the hiring manager to see them as the right fit.
When opportunities arise, will your professional identity work in your favor? If an employer searched your name today, would they find a strong, credible presence—or just another resume?
Now is the time to start shaping how the world sees you.
