Several years ago while in the process of becoming a web designer I discovered the best self promotional tool I had was my personal website.

It proved a great way to not only learn new design skills “on the fly”, but also showcase them at the same time. Since I didn’t have a whole lot of commercial work to produce a “proper” portfolio with, I decided to design my website according to a fictitious theme, and “tell a story” as it were.

One of these “themes” entailed my being a researcher at a disposable razor blade manufacturing company, and I designed a website that outlined by “work” at this “company”.

Though a million miles from web design as such, the website nevertheless demonstrated my design abilities, and due to its “quirky” nature was noticed by a number of professional web designers, including the one who went on to offer me a design job.

While having some sort of showcase website may seem like an over-obvious requirement for an aspirational web designer, there are a number of reasons why anyone who is changing careers should also consider having their own personal website, or blog.

Blogging isn’t just for those who wish to share details of their personal life or an interest in a pastime, and with some thought and careful execution, a blog can be a powerful self promotional and networking tool for career changers.

1. Make a name for yourself
A blog allows you to introduce yourself to the world and potentially make yourself known to a large number of people, and all before you’ve even left the house!

Who you are, and what you do (or would like to do) becomes visible to anyone looking (through search engines for example) for someone with your particular profile, interests, or goals.

2. Network with potential colleagues and contacts
A blog is a great way to create a network of people who share your interests and outlook, and it shouldn’t take too much searching around to find others who are blogging on the same topic as you.

You can start to make yourself known to these people by adding them to your blogroll, and making comments on their blog posts, or even by directly introducing yourself to them.

3. Share (or show off) what you know
One way to demonstrate your interest and knowledge is to write posts sharing your insights on issues and developments relating to the industry, or career field, you are interested in.

Well researched and written articles will give your readers the clear impression you are knowledgeable and up to speed with what’s happening around you.

For my part this proved very effective in finding web design work.

4. More than just a name
Many people effectively use discussion forums, news lists, and other online communities as a way of networking, and making a name for themselves, by sharing their knowledge on a given subject.

A blog though, containing more information about who you are and what you know, linked from your profile page or forum signature, can add a little more dimension to what is otherwise a two dimensional screen name or avatar.

5. Brand “You”
Creating a personal brand is one way of standing out from the crowd, and a blog is ideal way to go about a establishing your own brand.

Conclusion
Getting started and creating a blog has never been easier thanks to tools such as Wordpress and Blogger. Not only are they free to use, complete web novices, or those who don’t have time to develop a website, can be up and running in a matter of minutes, by simply using a standard blog template.

While becoming a “blogger” may not be everyone’s cup of tea, as a promotional and networking tool, it is certainly worth giving the prospect some consideration though.