My recent tweet on twitter exclaimed: “Unless you are a masked bandit super hero, take the name “Ninja” out of your title and job description.  Ninja, is a term social media enthusiasts are tagging next to their job title, but is it accurate?  What does that really mean?

1. If you are an expert qualify your expertise accurate in bullet points that describe the situation, task, action and result you achieved. 

2. Ninja’s don’t need job descriptions unless of course, they are turtles.

3. Consider your brand.  How are you positioning yourself in the market place?  Yes, facebook and twitter count.  Hiring managers are checking your sources as well as references.  Last time I checked, Ninjas don’t care.

4. Ask a colleague or a mentor for advice about your image.  As William Bridges used to say “It’s You & Company.”  Regardless of who you work for you are always working for yourself.  Manage your brand. You are the brand.

5. Read what the leading experts in your field are saying about social media–how are they connected? Can you connect the dots and use social media to position yourself and your market?

While I love the term “Ninja” to describe savvy, smarts, and social media pros-this term is over saturated in the mainstream workplace. Stick to your real credentials.  They speak volumes over cliches’. 

Recently, I connected with other HR professionals who helped me sculpt my twitter name.  These people also gave me great advice about how to tweak my tweets and linkedin profile.  Don’t be shy about asking for help.  Most people are more than willing to extend a hand.  Just be sure to return the favor by give them referrals, or help in return.

Your not a Ninja HR Pal,

Margo Rose, M.Ed. HR.D.