Your Personal Brand
Trying to stand out in such a competitive field can be challenging, with its ups and downs. However, there are many ways to overcome those obstacles and shine brighter in a dark room. Over the next three months, I will be putting a few tips and tricks into practice and see how far I can get through the guidance of my professor, Ryan De Fronzo.
For the longest time, I was terrified to put my personal information out. Why, you may ask, well for the sake of my privacy. The internet once felt like a scary place to me, but as time went by, I began to use it more freely. By the time I was in college, I had fully immersed myself in it. Now, as a communications major with an emphasis in PR, can you imagine how much more OUT there I need to be just to be slightly considered? Well, let me tell you—A LOT!
How Do You Know If You Are Out There?
First and foremost, check a few search engines and see if you pop up. I used Google, Yahoo, and Safari. Can you imagine my surprise when my LinkedIn profile was the first thing that appeared? I also came across my old Portfolium page (note to self: update that—embarrassing) along with images from my LinkedIn showcasing some of my work and accomplishments. However, I also found other people's personal social media accounts and random images.
Clearly, there’s room for improvement. Staying more consistent with posting on my LinkedIn can help push out some of those random results down and replace them with my relevant, professional content.
What Do These Results Say About You?
Since, the results a fairly vague, they don't offer a comprehensive representation of who l am. The little that is available, someone might gather that I am a CEO/ Founder of my business. They can see my headshot, a picture of my participation at PRSSA ICON 2024, and a campaign I worked on for Scott Pansky’s book, Playing Together in The Sandbox.
Can Prospective Employers Find You?
Although my search results are somewhat vague, an employer can still find me. Lucky me, I am the top result when searching my name on all three browsers I mentioned earlier. However, one platform—like LinkedIn—may not be enough. Employers want to see strong online presence, it reinforces me and anyone with a solid media presence as a credible candidate. The more established my digital footprint, the better I position myself as a competitive candidate.
What Is Your Digital Brand Telling Employers About You?
Now, lets dive deeper. What could an employer possibly think of my digital brand? From my search results, they might assume I have a professional background in PRSSA, that I do a lot of collaborative work, and that I value the connections I’ve built throughout my career. My LinkedIn recommendations showcases my credibility. However, my limited media presence might also suggest that I am not fully engaged on my platforms.
What Makes You the Same or Different From Others?
You see this was a question I used to struggle with. For years I convinced myself that nothing made me stand out. But, as cliché as it sounds, the truth is that everyone has something unique about them. The challenge is figuring out what that one thing is.
So, I made a list with two columns: one labeled “Same" and the other “Different.” I started writing what made most sense to me.
What makes me the same as others?
I am a communications student.
I am 22 years old.
I want to be a PR specialist, or a Digital Marketer.
I attend California State University, Fullerton (CSUF).
But how am I different?
I love photography—specifically concept photography.
I am a first-generation student and daughter.
I am the oldest child.
I am passionate about skin care and self-care.
I’m fancy. I’m extra. And so much more.
These traits carry so much more weight than, “I am passionate about…” They are a reflection of who I am. They show that I’m ambitious, passionate, adaptable, consistent. I have strong communications skills, and strong leadership qualities.
So ask yourself—what makes you different?
Can You Improve?
There is always room for improvement. So, why not take the steps that will not only benefit you but your future. I know I can do a lot more work to improve my digital representation. Consistency is key–staying active on LinkedIn will help me expand my reach strengthen my credibility with future employers. Additionally, creating a cohesive brand image can highlight what makes me unique and help me stand out in a sea of applicants. Lastly, establishing platforms to showcase my work–whether through a personal website or public social media profiles like TikTok, Instagram, or Facebook.
The goal is not just to be visible but to be recognized.
Phase Two
So, how do you work your way up this winding ladder? We start small.
Tip #1: Network
I have learned that networking can get you far. So, I started a slow process to network with two individuals who work at companies I would love to work at one day: Crystal Ramirez—PR and Influencer Associate at Rare Beauty and Crystal Le—Social Media Coordinator at IPSY. I chose these individuals because they have built a strong background over the years. The work showcased on their profiles is amazing and truly inspiring.
Tip #2: Building A Relationship
Building a relationship with them both can help with my future career goals by allowing me to seek their guidance, counsel, and insight on opportunities that could lead me to my dream job. Having a network is about building a community—a community that wants to see you succeed and offers all kinds of help, even paving a little road for you.
The nicest thing about networking is seeing others’ progress–how they got from point A to point B. Crystal Ramirez and Crystal Le have great experiences showcased on their profile. They both started working for smaller companies and worked their way up, carrying more new skills to each new job.
Job Shopping
When looking for a job it’s important to look at what is required of you as an applicant. I took a look at the job description for Rare Beauty. These are some of the few requirements they look for:
2-3 years in Social Media Marketing
Strategic
Creative
Experience with Adobe
Now, these are a few things IPSY looks for:
Bachelors Degree (preferably in business, marketing, technical or quantitative field)
8-10+ years of strategic and hands-on experience developing marketing campaigns
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Strong analytical skills
Phase Three
Last but not least you’re going to want to join groups on LinkedIn. And this is why.
Job opportunities
Tips from other professionals
Networking
I have joined three groups (still pending approval)
Group #1: Wellness, Cosmetics, Beauty and Fashion Professionals
This group will help me achieve the three goals above–seeking business opportunities, networking, and ask for tips from other professionals.
Group #2: Cosmetics, Beauty, and Fashion Job Opportunities
This group will also help me the same way as the first. Their focus is to help those looking to find and contact other members on linkedIn seeking employment and job opportunities in the beauty industry.
Group #3: Beauty Influencer
This last group is a little different. It’ll help me create a stronger digital footprint. This group focuses on helping aspiring or beauty influencers grow their personal brand, reach more audiences, and collaborate with other influencers and brands in the beauty industry.
With all three I plan to contribute to my network by sharing job opportunities I may come across. Additionally, I will offer my insight and knowledge to support others in the industry.
