For Members

Stand Out In a Challenging Job Market

20.09.2023 · DigitalWisers
Stand Out In a Challenging Job Market

In today's rapidly changing and highly competitive job market, finding the right job opportunity is not always easy. Even when you do find one, standing out among countless applicants can seem impossible.

So, what can you do in a world where employers tend to spend as little as six to seven seconds looking at a CV? DigitalWisers already gives you a head start by offering you the best-fit job opportunities through industry experts. But to help you gain valuable insights, we've asked some of the top HR experts in the field. We've compiled insights from recruiters who keep an eye on the hiring trends of the best companies today and understand how a talent can make a difference.

1. Always respond to a person referring you to a job

Even if a job opportunity doesn't appeal to you, always respond to or follow up with the person who is offering it. This connection could be valuable when you're considering a new career move in the future. Currently you might not be open to the job opportunity, however learning about the job details can provide you with information about general employer expectations, understanding market salaries better, and connecting with an industry expert.


2. Clearly communicate your expectations

When an expert reaches out to you about a role that doesn't interest you or doesn't align with your preferences, you can still discuss roles that do interest you; you can mention your preferred industries, specific companies you'd like to work for, or your salary range expectations when considering a new opportunity. This way, when a best-fit role comes up later, you can be referred to as a perfect match. Sharing more information about your career goals and providing clear examples can lead to more tailored job opportunities in the future.


3. Refer your own network for the job opportunity

If a role isn't a perfect fit for you, you can review your own connections to see if anyone in your network might be a good fit. You can examine your LinkedIn connections and share potential candidates with the person who offered you the job opportunity. This can be a smart career move for your own network and may lead to mutual benefits in the long run.


4. Be unique

From the initial introduction to the end of the interview process, being unique is crucial. When we say "be unique," we mean highlighting the qualities that set you apart from everyone else. Companies don't just want to know why you're applying for the position; they want to understand what excites you about the opportunity. During an interview, you can discuss your passions, career goals, and why you appreciate specific aspects of the company. Expressing what makes you a unique fit for the company is essential.


5. Values beyond the CV

Let your personality shine through! The importance of company culture has significantly increased in today's world, making soft skills as important as technical competencies. While having the required qualifications and competencies is important, not everyone may be proficient in effective collaboration, teamwork, and maintaining a positive attitude at work. Remember, you're not just a resume; your personality sets you apart. During the interview, the hiring manager will definitely focus on your personality, your added value, and your contribution to the company culture.

6. Do Your Research

Conducting thorough research before an interview is essential. Understand the responsibilities of the role and don't forget to explore the company's website. It's important to gain a clear understanding of what the company does. Take the time to research the company's social media, blogs, and any published news related to the company. Researching the company's management team on LinkedIn is also a valuable step. Showing that you're knowledgeable about the company during the interview demonstrates your enthusiasm for the job opportunity. You can also find common connections or interests among the company's employees. This makes building trust easier and helps you establish a unique connection.

7. Communicate openly so everyone can win

Establish an honest and transparent communication with the person referring you for the job;  they are your advocates and want you to win together. Share important information and keep in touch regularly. If you have other job offers on the table, be sure to inform them. Be open about what it takes to accept or decline a job, ensuring that important information is communicated promptly, respecting everyone's time. Remember that community leaders are here to present you in the best light to companies, and last-minute surprises can create unnecessary challenges, damage trust with the company, and hinder the common goal of placing you in the best-fit job opportunity.

8. LinkedIn: Where first impressions are made

Clearly list the companies you've worked for, your entry and exit dates, and brief descriptions of each role on your LinkedIn profile. Honesty about your work experience is crucial! A complex and disorganized job history can be frustrating for recruiters to decipher. Having a strong presence on LinkedIn is a critical step in making a positive first impression with any recruitment professional.

9. The power of a photo

Add a photo! You don't have to be photogenic, but for an effective LinkedIn profile, it's important to choose a photo that reflects your personality. Your photo can be fun, but it should always maintain an essence of professional grace.

10. Join Bloks

Bloks in DİgitalWisers are for communities managed by well-connected industry leaders and professionals. Blok owners can support you  -as a Blok member- in matching with the best job opportunities. By joining a Blok related to your industry, you gain access to exclusive job opportunities and referrals for open positions.

Create your DigitalWisers profile today and be ready to receive the best-fit job opportunities by joining industry-specific Bloks!


Discover other blog posts:

Engaging the Few to Influence Many: Niche Community Strategies for Brands

For Companies

Engaging the Few to Influence Many: Niche Community Strategies for Brands

Niche communities are defined as small, tightly-knit groups formed around shared interests, values, or lifestyles; they have emerged as powerful platforms to meet these desires.For brands, these communities present an exceptional opportunity to engage their audience on a deeper level. Building a niche community goes beyond traditional marketing. It’s about fostering trust, creating a sense of belonging, and establishing strong, lasting relationships with customers.These spaces, like those developed by LEGO and Sephora, help brands amplify loyalty, encourage organic advocacy, and even co-create innovations. But how can your brand establish such a unique environment? What strategies can guarantee authenticity and ensure loyalty?This article explores the essential steps for building thriving niche communities that convert customers into passionate ambassadors.What is a Niche Community?Niche communities are spaces designed around specific interests or values. These platforms are home to passionate members who engage in authentic, meaningful discussions.Examples of Successful Niche Communities Around the WorldDeineTierwelt: A platform for pet lovers to exchange knowledge and support. (Germany)Instant Pod: Airfryer brand with 3.2 million active community members, mostly sharing recipes. (USA)Beije: A brand community that aims to raise public awareness on menstrual health. (Türkiye)The Benefits of Niche CommunitiesStronger Relationships: Niche communities foster deeper, more personalized connections.Enhanced Brand Authority: These spaces establish expertise and build trust within specific audiences.Targeted Engagement: Brands gain insights into customer challenges and desires, shaping better products and services.Data Ownership: Unlike traditional social media, brands maintain control over their community and its data.User-Generated Content (UGC): Members contribute valuable content that enhances SEO and enriches the brand.Building a Successful Niche CommunityDefine Your Target Audience: Understand who your community will serve and what their shared interests are.Choose the Right Platform: Opt for dedicated tools like DigitalWisers that offers variety of featuresStart Small: Build with a core group of engaged members.Promote and Grow: Use social media and email marketing to expand reach.Encourage Engagement: Create spaces for discussions, events, and feedback to keep members active.Niche communities offer brands an unparalleled opportunity to connect with customers on a deeper level. By focusing on shared values and interests, these spaces foster loyalty, trust, and genuine advocacy. With the right strategies and platforms, brands can turn these communities into thriving ecosystems that benefit both the customers and the business.

16.12.2024 · DigitalWisers
Adaptation Into an AI-driven Job World

For Members

Adaptation Into an AI-driven Job World

In the age of artificial intelligence (AI), the rapid advancement of technology is reshaping industries and transforming job markets at an unprecedented pace. As automation becomes more prevalent, it is crucial for individuals to adapt and acquire new skills to remain relevant in the workforce. Reskilling has emerged as a vital strategy for professionals to navigate this changing landscape and secure their future employability. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of reskilling in the age of AI and discuss how individuals can effectively embrace the adoption of a new model of work.How Are New Technologies Changing Skills?New technologies, especially AI, are automating several tasks that were traditionally performed by humans. In Microsoft's 2023 Job Index Report, the data showed something surprising: workers are more eager for AI to help them with their work than they are afraid of losing their jobs to AI. Even though 49% of people worry that AI will take their jobs, 70% would give as much work as possible to AI to make their lives easier. This collaboration not only increases efficiency but also demands a different set of skills. Automated systems are increasingly replacing manual and repetitive tasks, giving workers more time to concentrate on innovative ideas, complex problem-solving, and creative thinking. The ability to learn and pick up new skills swiftly is now a must-have, as technology advances at an unprecedented rate. Adaptability, flexibility, and a growth mindset are crucial as we navigate the interplay between humans and machines. New research suggests that technical skills, which include professional knowledge and experience, may become less important as artificial intelligence improves. According to current thinking, human review and the provision of the necessary arrangements are necessary because artificial intelligence results cannot be completely accurate. When artificial intelligence technologies deliver almost exact or totally accurate results, technical skills will no longer be essential for fully automated corporate positions. At this point, re-skilling comes to the fore because it allows individuals to adapt and acquire new skills that are in demand in a rapidly changing job market. As artificial intelligence continues to advance, individuals will need to develop skills that complement and enhance the capabilities of these technologies, such as critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence. What are the standout skills?Microsoft's 2023 Job Trend Index report revealed that the three most important skills that employers and their employees believe are necessary are analytical reasoning, flexibility, and emotional intelligence. Using emotional intelligence, the ability to empathize, relationship management, and communication come first. Artificial intelligence's current limitations prevent it from being used to make exact projections and develop effective plans for the future. At this point, learning how to ask the right questions also emerges as a new skill.Alessandro Di Fiore, a former writer for Harvard Business Review, emphasizes the importance of judgment in the age of artificial intelligence, arguing that reasoning ability will become as crucial as technical skills as all workers gain access to AI.These skills are seen as essential because AI can handle routine tasks and data analysis, but it lacks the ability to understand human emotions and effectively communicate with others. As AI becomes more prevalent in the workplace, individuals who possess strong judgment and emotional intelligence will be better equipped to navigate complex situations and build meaningful connections with colleagues and clients. The Path to Successful Re-Skilling Identifying in-demand skillsBefore embarking on a re-skilling journey, it's crucial to identify which skills are in high demand in the job market. Research and analyze industry trends to make informed decisions.Online learning platformsThe internet offers a wealth of resources for re-skilling. Online learning platforms such as Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning provide a vast array of courses on topics ranging from data science to digital marketing.Joining CommunitiesNetworking with professionals and joining professional communities in your desired field can provide valuable guidance and insights. Learning from experienced individuals can accelerate your re-skilling process.Reskilling in the age of AI is not just about surviving technological disruptions but also about embracing new opportunities and unlocking the full potential of human capabilities. By recognizing the changing skill landscape and taking proactive measures to reskill, both talents and companies can thrive amidst the rapid advances in technology.

03.10.2023 · DigitalWisers
Critical Lessons in Startup Community Managing

For Communities

Critical Lessons in Startup Community Managing

Every early-stage founder dreams of a thriving, connected community of passionate users. A well-nurtured community not only signals a product-market fit but also serves as a catalyst for organic growth, branding, and long-lasting user engagement. However, creating a true community—where members feel a deep connection and a sense of ownership—requires more than just launching a product and hoping people will gather. This article summarizes the critical lessons startups can learn from successful community builders, drawing on insights from Bailey Richardson, an early hire at Instagram and a partner at People & Company, a community building counseling company.Avoiding a "Community in Name Only"One of the most common pitfalls in startup community building is creating what Richardson calls a "community in name only." Too often, startups label their users as a community without fostering the deep connections and shared purpose that characterize a true community. Richardson emphasizes that a real community is more than just a group of users—it’s a collective of people who regularly come together around a shared passion or goal. To avoid this mistake, startups must ensure that their community-building efforts are grounded in genuine engagement, where members are not just passive participants but active contributors to the community’s success.Finding the First 100 True BelieversEvery thriving community begins with a small group of passionate individuals who are deeply invested in the startup's mission. These early adopters, often referred to as the "first 100 true believers," are critical to the community's initial growth. Startups should focus on identifying and nurturing these key members, even if it means engaging in activities that don’t scale, such as personalized outreach or hosting intimate meetups. The goal at this stage is not to achieve mass adoption but to build a strong foundation of dedicated members who will advocate for the community and help it grow organically.Defining the Purpose of Your CommunityBefore diving into community-building activities, it’s essential for startups to clearly define the purpose of their community. This involves answering the fundamental question: "Why are we bringing people together?" The purpose should align with the startup's mission and provide value to its members, whether that’s through support, education, or collaboration. For example, the Instant Pot community on Facebook started as a space for users to share recipes and tips, which later evolved into a powerful support network that fueled the product’s popularity. By defining a clear purpose, startups can ensure that their community efforts are meaningful and sustainable.Sustaining Community EngagementOne of the biggest challenges in community building is maintaining consistent engagement over time. Richardson warns against the "one-off event" mentality, where startups host a single event or campaign and expect it to sustain the community. Instead, community building requires ongoing effort and regular touchpoints that encourage members to keep coming back. This could be through monthly meetups, online discussions, or continuous content creation. The key is to create a rhythm of activities that reinforce the community’s purpose and keep members engaged.Shifting the Spotlight to Community MembersA successful community isn’t just about promoting the startup’s narrative—it’s about highlighting the stories and contributions of its members. Richardson, who played a pivotal role in growing Instagram’s community, believes that startups should regularly shine a spotlight on their users, showcasing their creativity, achievements, and unique perspectives. This not only strengthens the bond between the startup and its community but also inspires other members to become more active participants. Startups should consider dedicating resources to finding and telling these stories, whether through social media features, blog posts, or community awards.Gathering and Filtering User FeedbackEngaging with the community also means actively listening to its members. However, not all feedback should be treated equally. Richardson advises startups to be discerning when collecting user input, focusing on feedback that aligns with the community’s goals and the startup’s long-term vision. Community managers play a crucial role in this process, acting as "discerning sponges" who absorb all feedback but only pass on the most valuable insights to the product team. This approach ensures that the community’s voice is heard without overwhelming the startup with conflicting demands.Integrating Community into Organizational StructureAs a startup’s community grows, it becomes increasingly important to integrate community efforts into the organization’s structure. This could mean creating a dedicated community team or embedding community managers within product, marketing, or support teams. The goal is to ensure that community insights are continuously fed back into the startup’s decision-making processes. Richardson highlights the importance of maintaining close ties between community and product teams, particularly as the startup scales. This integration allows for a more responsive and user-centric approach to product development.Empowering Community LeadersOne of the most effective ways to scale a community is by empowering its members to take on leadership roles. This involves "passing the torch" and giving community members the autonomy to organize events, moderate discussions, and create content. However, startups must also provide the necessary tools, guidelines, and support to ensure that these leaders can succeed. Richardson suggests creating a "sandbox" environment where community leaders have the freedom to innovate within a structured framework. This balance between freedom and control is key to sustaining a vibrant and self-sustaining community.Building a Scalable Community FrameworkScaling a community doesn’t mean losing its core values or diluting its purpose. Startups should develop a scalable framework that allows the community to grow while maintaining its authenticity. This could involve creating templates for events, establishing clear communication channels, or developing a set of community guidelines. By standardizing certain aspects of the community, startups can ensure consistency while still allowing for creativity and personalization at the local level. Successful community-driven companies like Duolingo and GirlBoss have demonstrated the power of scalable community frameworks that retain their essence even as they expand globally.Measuring Community SuccessTo gauge the success of their community-building efforts, startups need to track key metrics that reflect the health and growth of the community. These metrics might include engagement rates, retention rates, the number of active contributors, and the frequency of community-led activities. Additionally, startups should consider the long-term impact of the community on their business, such as increased customer loyalty, brand advocacy, and organic user acquisition. Regularly reviewing these metrics allows startups to adjust their community strategies and ensure they are meeting both community and business objectives.Adapting Community Strategies Over TimeAs startups grow and evolve, so too should their community strategies. What works for a small, niche community may not be effective for a larger, more diverse one. Startups must be willing to adapt their approaches, whether that means introducing new types of events, expanding into new platforms, or adjusting their communication style. Richardson emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and iteration in community building, encouraging startups to stay responsive to the changing needs of their members. By remaining flexible and open to change, startups can ensure that their community remains vibrant and relevant over time.Case Studies of Extraordinary CommunitiesLearning from the successes of other communities can provide valuable insights for startups. Each case study offers unique lessons in community building. These examples illustrate the diverse ways in which communities can form, grow, and contribute to a startup’s success. By studying these cases, startups can identify common threads and apply these insights to their own community-building efforts.Common Challenges in Community BuildingBuilding a community is not without its challenges. Startups may struggle with low initial engagement, managing diverse member needs, or preventing burnout among community leaders. Richardson advises startups to be patient and persistent, recognizing that community building is a long-term investment. By addressing challenges head-on and learning from setbacks, startups can develop more resilient communities that stand the test of time. Common strategies for overcoming these challenges include focusing on small wins, fostering open communication, and providing ongoing support to community leaders.

05.09.2024 · DigitalWisers