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Culture May 11, 2020
Learn from a Marketing and Branding Specialist why you should build a personal brand, even if you're not a marketer.
Image via Unsplash/@stilclassicsWhether you like it or not, you already have a personal brand. Just because you haven’t established an Instagram theme or a personal mission statement doesn’t mean you’re free from branding. Everything about us, from our style to our attitude becomes part of the image we allow those around us to see. So whether you’re just an average person looking for a career change, or you’re hoping to be the next biggest influencer, it’s time you learn how to build a personal brand.
The ENTITY Mag staff teamed up with Marketing and Branding Specialist Chelsea Krost for a Twitter thread called, #MillennialTalk and this is one of the topics that was covered in great detail.
Yep, that’s right. Your personal brand could mean the difference between scoring your dream job and being unemployed. And if you’re over social media then, well, get over it. If you don’t believe us, then check out this survey which found just how many employers rely on social media.
On the flip side, your social media personal brand could be your downfall. Another survey found that more than half of employers choose not to hire a candidate based on content found on their social media. Deciding not to curate your online image and build a personal brand could mean losing an opportunity.
When you build a personal brand, you have the ability to make an impression no matter where you are. As companies continue to offer more remote positions, having a personal brand could mean scoring a remote job that wouldn’t have been available to you otherwise.
A personal brand doesn’t only serve to benefit others. Knowing who you are, what you stand for, and how you communicate can help build your confidence.
If you’re still unsure, check out this article from an ENTITY Academy mentee who learned to love personal branding.
By now, maybe you’re convinced but confused. Well, look no further. Here are the pieces of advice ENTITY and Chelsea Krost gave during #MillennialTalk to answer this very question.
While we’re all painfully aware that social media can often be a highlight reel, there is nothing wrong with authentically playing to your strengths. This could be as simple as having the confidence to showcase some of your work. Be proud of yourself and don’t be afraid to let others know!
Rather than posting a one-off photo of an awesome design you did, make it a habit. Maybe it means creating a schedule or just being more mindful of your posting patterns. This might even encourage you to do more of the work you enjoy and excel at!
Okay, so this seems obvious, but it’s so true. If activism is important to you, then you shouldn’t be afraid to show it. Would you really want a job that doesn’t align with your beliefs anyway? Never feel pressured to engage in social media drama or trends that don’t feel authentic to you. Focus on the things that you’re passionate about and reflect them on your feed.
While social media definitely has its faults, when used sparingly and authentically, it can open doors, connect people from all over the world, and help you express yourself. So, see social media for the faults it has and the opportunities it presents. Do your part to access those opportunities and avoid those faults by building a genuine personal brand.
