It’s 2021 and collectively we’re all beginning to heave sighs of relief about that, and more and more of us are fortunate enough to be able to do so behind closed doors, in small groups, without having to wear a mask! Things are starting to improve, right? Spring is around the corner, we’re all anxiously waiting for the “ok” to open our doors and windows again, and also: we’ve been able to “Spring” forward our clocks, so an extra hour of light! The light at the end of the tunnel literally and metaphorically is upon us.

With that said, I’m sure I’m not alone in looking back on the pandemic lockdown and observing ways in which I’ve tried to improve myself and my surroundings. I started working out, I learned a ton of new recipes (if you don’t have an Instapot or Air Fryer, I have some recommendations for you), and I also earned a couple of professional certifications that look very nice on my updated profile.

I bring this up to ask: have you considered what potential employers look for in employees? Especially in the advocate marketing industry, a quick search for jobs at Indeed.com clues me in that companies, like all of us, are starting to come out from their pandemic cocoons. Budgets are being approved, hires are being sought after; This is the perfect time to consider how to make yourself stand out!

One way to do so is by showcasing your expertise. I’m sure, like me, that you’re on LinkedIn. Have you polished up your profile, recently? You should really think about enhancing your page!

In finance, and in marketing to a lesser extent, a client will often ask advisors to see their credentials – so when you earn them, show them off. Going after expanded professional education is something to hold on a pedestal; it establishes confidence in you from your clients and employers. It shows initiative, character and drive!

If you’re reading this, it’s very likely that you’re also working in advocacy. If so, you should really consider signing up for Referential’s Customer Advocacy On-Demand Training. When the world was normal these classes were held in person, but you are now able to take them online from anywhere, at times convenient for you!

Our peer-designed courses are created by and taught by industry professionals with decades of in-the-weeds experience. We can teach you about what it takes to build robust customer reference programs from the bottom up because we have all, individually and as a group, experienced it.

Are you looking to build a database of active customer references but don’t know where to start? Are you having trouble determining the ‘what, which and how’ of metrics you should track? Are there more questions than answers? …Or are you looking for a real, in-depth refresher course to help polish your resume and knowledge base?

These courses are designed for professional development and skills-building for advocacy practitioners like yourself. There are currently two separate courses available (with almost 100 classes combined between them!), and a third course is on the way. Each level supports the ICCAP.Expert certifications and even has practice exams to help you be ready for the corresponding ICCAP examination.

Invest the time and effort in yourself, today. Speaking from personal experience, you will not regret doing so. I look forward to seeing you there!