One way to stand out is to exert thought leadership and critical thinking ability through starting a blog.
Contrary to most perception, a blog can be more than just a "Here's what I had for lunch" page or a personal rant page (in fact I personally DISCOURAGE doing that and save that for phone calls with close friends). It is a place for you to share what you know as an expert to the world. Suppose you are a piano teacher, you may want to offer a sample of your teaching style to help prospective students decide if you are the right fit for them. (Similar to how Costco offers samples to help you decide if you want to buy 10 boxes of cereal). That's what my blogger friend Grace Miles did as a piano teacher, her blog today is an extensive library of best practices for piano teachers and students.
But you may say, "Ed, I'm not self employed like Grace, I work in a fortune 500 company and looking to move up, why would I need a blog?". My answer to you is two words, Thought Leadership. Just because you work in a large company it doesn't mean that you should remain silent. It is definitely beneficial to be known in your field either as an expert or as an emerging leader. When business leaders consider people to fast track or groom as future leaders, the would want someone who is well knowledgeable and passionate about their field (would you trust your CEO if he knows noting about the industry or know the right people?). Setting up a blog and posting on it regularly is a great way to set yourself apart from others and develop your sense of thought leadership. Show potential managers and recruiters that you are more than just someone who can crunch numbers but you also have a sense of critical thinking and decision making. Post up to date industry news to show that you are on top of what's happening in the industry and share your opinion to show your views.
A Toastmasters, Tech enthusiast and digital communications specialist, Edward loves building community connecting people with one another. He hosts multiple online communities in vancouver including Career Success cafe meetup, Young professionals group and Bubble Tea Meetup.