Personal branding

Personal Branding: It’s Really Not That Hard!

April 1st, 2011

By Bob McIntosh, CPRW, MBTI

Henny Penny says, “My goodness me! The sky must be falling down. I must go and tell the king.”

But I told my 10-year-old son; “You don’t have to remember every word when you do your presentation. Just say something like, ‘Henny Penny was collecting acorns when she got hit on the head. She thought the sky was falling, so she went to tell the King. You can even pretend you got hit on the head. The kids will laugh.”

“Yeah, they’ll laugh at me.” (On the verge of tears.)

“No. Just tell your story the way you remember the book. Now how many animals are there, and what are their names?”

“Henny Penny, Cocky Locky, Ducky Lucky…”

“Begins with a G.”

“Oh, Goosey Poosey (not Loosey). Turkey Lurkey. And Foxy Woxy.” (Smile.)

So it went on for an hour. » Read more: Personal Branding: It’s Really Not That Hard!

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Personal Branding: Let’s Get Serious about How We Appear

March 21st, 2011

By Bob McIntosh, CPRW, MBTI

Over the years, people have talked about self-branding as something we purposely do to distinguish ourselves from others. I believe this to be true. Whereas some have referred to branding as simply behaving in a favorably consistent manner, it amounts to much more than that. Although branding must not seem contrived, it’s a mistake to assume that it takes no conscious effort. This misconception will lead to wasted effort, albeit small, and cause one to abandon future branding efforts.

Branding is a conscious effort businesses and people make to set them apart from the norm. Businesses that are maintaining the status quo or job seekers who are seen as average, are failing in their efforts to brand themselves. Do we have to live by a five second statement that defines us, constantly repeating a rehearsed mantra wherever we go? No, but we have to know how to present ourselves in all situations and at any moment. In other words, we have to be on guard at all times.

I recognize the serious job seekers who understand what branding is. They come to our urban career center with their branding statement written prominently across their chest. I’m reminded of the occasional job seekers who are well dressed in business casual, and sometimes wearing a tie; for the women, a nice blouse and slacks. These are the ones who understand the importance of » Read more: Personal Branding: Let’s Get Serious about How We Appear

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Personal Branding: Gen Y & Reputation Management

December 2nd, 2010

By Deepak Gupta

For some, we live in a world where the perception of the Generation Y lifestyle is that of Jersey Shore.  If you are sharp, you would know the things you watch on TV as just as real as what you see in the News.  Unfortunately, many people have this preconceived notion and rather than fight it, one needs to play the game.

Now you and I know that one can separate their fun time from work time, but many cannot do this.  Rather than giving a potential employer or client ammo to unfairly judge you, manage your online reputation!  One should also note that it shows good judgment by keeping your pictures from Vegas off of say Facebook.

Being online is great for your personal brand and gaining exposure; however, make sure you are professional and discuss topics relevant to your field.  LinkedIn is a great tool for this.  In addition, setting up a Google Alert for your name can help you keep track of what’s being mentioned about you online.  If something that is incorrect or has anything libelous, you can always send over a cease and desist letter.

As far as employment screenings – whatever you post online is fair game to the hiring manager, » Read more: Personal Branding: Gen Y & Reputation Management

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