SoFi Blog

We’re now in the so-called “gig economy,” where many people juggle multiple income streams. Side hustles—everything from teaching hip-hop dance on the weekends to selling leg warmers for chairs on Etsy—abound. While it’s difficult to quantify the exact number of contingent workers, it’s estimated that millions of Americans participate in the gig economy. These gigs not only bring in extra cash to help pay off debt or save for the future, but can also help you achieve your long-term career goals.

When I moved back to the Bay Area in 2010, I thought I’d find a new job within a few months. After all, I’d found work quickly before. But boy, was I wrong!

Relying on the tried and true methods no longer worked. I applied to dozens of companies and only heard back from a few. It was a tough economy, sure, and mid-management level jobs take longer to get than entry-level jobs. Still, the silence was crushing.

Eventually, I made it to a final round of interviews with three different organizations, but each time I was only the runner-up. A fresh round of disappointment followed.

Name: Alegria Beveridge

Locale: Denver, CO

Alma Maters: Mount Ida College and Bay Path University

By Day: Software Project Manager

SoFi Member Since: 2015

Approximate SoFi Loan: $37,000 (self), $250,000 (husband)

SoFi Savings: $7,000 on own loans, $30,000 on husband’s loans

There’s a reason that you consistently buy your coffee from the same place or insist on only using Apple products. Sure, part of it may be your great taste. But your favorite companies have also created successful and compelling corporate brands, which communicate exactly what they’re about and what you can expect.

Whether you’re embarking on (or knee-deep in) a job search, or you just want to be prepared for your next move, you likely know how to use LinkedIn, and how important it is to have a strong LinkedIn profile in order to achieve your career goals. But does your own profile actually reflect that?