Here at HRB we are always talking about our clients’ online presence and various digital campaigns. Over the past five weeks I have acquired a plethora of knowledge on the importance of digital media strategies, starting with the basics: Google AdWords , PPC (pay-per-click) , and even why Facebook knows to entice me with ad banners for J.Crew.
We brand our clients using these digital methods, but what about my personal brand?
While I don’t expect to use AdWords to boost my online persona, there are certainly ways to actively create and promote a personal brand on the web that will work to my advantage in my future endeavors.
Tom Peters writes in Fast Company Magazine , “To be in business today, our most important job is to be head marketer for the brand called You.”
LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional network is the place to start. Building a profile that accurately depicts your talents, accomplishments, and experience are key to personal branding. As a college student, it’s reassuring to know that there are a number of valuable things that define me to future employers beyond the digits of my GPA.
On all media platforms it’s important to understand the key messages you’re sending.When sharing thoughts, articles or photos, consider:
- What do you want to be remembered by?
- What are you interested in?
- What profession are you pursuing?
Maybe these are things seem irrelevant to your current Facebook or Twitter account, but the more integrated the key messages are, the stronger the personal brand. Consider what your aspirations are, and conduct yourself in a way that aligns with those. Try looking at your accounts from the perspective of a total stranger: what are the initial impressions of your profile?
A few things to remember (that we often forget):
- What you retweet and who you follow is a representation of yourself
- Opinions are okay—even encouraged—so long as they’re presented well
- Be a resource to your followers: engage, be insightful, and present new ideas
And with all of this being said, be yourself! It’s your personal brand, after all.