Joblogging

In the end, the blogs were not the deciding factor for any of the candidates, but they did play a role in the committee's impressions, and they weren't always positive.

Here are a few simple do's and don'ts to keep in mind:

• A blog is forever. Even if you delete or edit a post, many people will have already read it and possibly commented on it, and an archive of it may be available in many other places. If there's any possible negative consequence of something you might post, it's best left in your head.
• Make sure that all your posts are technically accurate. It's much better to err on the side of fewer, higher-quality blog posts, than many blog posts that do not represent you well.
• Be "personally professional." Blogs are by their nature informal and personal. If you're overly formal, you may not connect well with other bloggers or potential readers. On the other hand, venturing off into every dark corner of your life may not sit well with prospective employers.
• Don't list your blog on your résumé unless it is relevant. If you're seeking employment as a risk management analyst, list your economics blog if you have one, but not your political rant blog.
• Make sure your blog is reasonably attractive and presentable. It is part of your personal appearance every bit as much as your résumé, your clothes, or your hygiene and grooming.
• Read and connect with other job search and recruiter bloggers. You can get relevant, current tips to help with your job search, share leads with others in the same and similar fields as you, and connect with recruiters who specialize in the type of jobs you are seeking. Use your blog both to build and leverage your network.

With your expertise, some decent writing skills and a little bit of common sense, your blog can be a powerful tool for finding your next job.