| Do you know one of the best ways to make a great | | | | How (and when) do you present a brag book? |
| impression in your job interview and set yourself apart | | | | Present your brag book like you would a product |
| from other job candidates? Build a brag book. | | | | brochure. (You're selling yourself and your skills, after |
| Brag books can be very persuasive in an interview | | | | all.) Have it segmented and easy for you to find |
| process (if you use them right). The fact that you've | | | | information, so that you can deliver it in a controlled, |
| taken the time to put one together is an | | | | confident, organized manner. Hiring managers will look |
| attention-getter, and the things you highlight in it are the | | | | at how you use your brag book. That's their indication |
| "proof" that you are someone they want to hire. The | | | | for how you'll use product brochures, PowerPoint |
| skill you use in presenting your brag book showcases | | | | presentations, or other media with your future |
| other "intangible," but highly desirable, qualities such as | | | | customers/clients. |
| your communication skills, energy, and enthusiasm. | | | | It's up to you do determine when the time is right in |
| What is a brag book? | | | | your interview for your brag book. Your cue might be |
| A brag book is a folder or binder that serves to clarify | | | | when you hear "Tell me a little more about yourself," |
| your skill sets and set you apart from the competition. | | | | for instance. You will be able to gauge how well your |
| It can include letters of recommendation, "attaboy" | | | | interview is going by whether or not you get to show |
| notes (or any notes commenting on what a good job | | | | your brag book, whether you are able to present all |
| you've done), staff ranking, annual reviews (if you | | | | the sections, and by the reaction of the hiring manager |
| include some, include them all), rewards letters, your | | | | to your compiled information. |
| resume, types of equipment you've used or marketed, | | | | Bottom line... |
| certifications or other educational courses, any financial | | | | A brag book demonstrates initiative, professionalism, |
| or PowerPoint presentations, copies of articles you've | | | | organization, an understanding of sales and marketing |
| written, brochures you've helped develop, and a college | | | | (although it's certainly applicable to other career areas), |
| transcript (ONLY IF you're just getting out). Change | | | | and sets you apart from your competition--it's the |
| and add to your book as you go through your career. | | | | difference between "good" and "great. |