Network + Personal Branding Guide

Written By Liza Sem

Network + Personal Branding Guide

Step 1: Get Clarity on Your Story

  • Identify your target (roles, industries, company types)

  • Craft a 3-line elevator pitch: who you are, what you do, and what you want next

  • Prepare 2–3 career wins that show you can drive results

Step 2: Fix Your Foundation

  • LinkedIn headline = Value prop, not just title

    (e.g., “Content Strategist | I help startups grow through brand & storytelling”)

  • Optimize your About section to show your story + credibility

  • Add metrics + scope to your work experience

Step 3: Build a Personal Brand (carve out 30 min a day)

  • Share 2–3 posts a week: wins, insights, opinions, or things you’ve learned relevant to your industry/area of expertise

  • Comment with on other posts..this builds visibility faster than posting alone

  • Treat your profile like a landing page. LinkedIn is a social platform. What do you want someone to do after visiting? Check out your portfolio, get in touch etc.

Step 4: Activate Your Network

  • Make a list of 30–50 people across:

    • Past coworkers

    • Old managers

    • Friends in relevant industries

    • People you’ve DMed or connected with on LinkedIn

  • Message them:

    “Hey! I’m actively looking for my next opportunity in [industry/role]. I’ve recently [top 2-3 accomplishments or impact.] If you hear of anything or know someone I should meet, I’d be so grateful.”

  • Don’t ask for a job. Ask for advice, intros, or insight.

Step 5: Go Direct (Skip the Application Pile)

  • Identify 10–15 dream companies

  • Use LinkedIn to find the hiring manager or recruiter

  • Send a tailored message:

    “Saw that you’re hiring for [role]. I’ve done similar work at [past company] and would love to share why I’m excited about your team.”

  • Attach your resume or portfolio (ALWAYS).

Step 6: Treat it Like a Funnel

  • Track everything in a spreadsheet or Notion board:

    • Outreach

    • Referrals

    • Interviews

    • Follow-ups

  • Aim for 5–10 touchpoints a day across outreach, content, or follow-up

Step 7: Stay Top of Mind

  • Follow up every 7–10 days with new info: a project update, a recent post, or something relevant to their work

  • Keep showing up online with value and consistency

Bonus: Make it Easy to Say Yes

  • Have a one-pager or portfolio ready

  • Be specific when you ask for help: “Do you know anyone at [company] I could speak with?”

Liza Sem

Creative Digital Strategist

https://lizasem.com
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