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Building a Personal Brand for Young Professionals

By Jennifer Weasner, Alvernia University

Building a Personal Brand for Young Professionals

In an extremely digital world, it is important for young professionals to consider putting together a digital portfolio as well as becoming present on LinkedIn. Digital portfolios are great for artists to gather all of the work they have done throughout their careers, but other business professionals can also benefit from this too. LinkedIn is a great tool for students to use where they can connect with professors, other students, and colleagues. These tools allow professionals to build their personal brand and showcase their knowledge by creating credibility with their audience.

“I think that all young professionals, regardless of area of study, should develop, own and celebrate their personal brand. It’s a wonderful way for students to show off their skills, connect with others and stand out in the job market. LinkedIn is a tool that I highly recommend for all students to explore. The platform allows you to create a profile, tell your story and connect with other industry leaders.” said Director of Student and Client Services for Alvernia University’s O’Pake Institute, Michelle Conway.

On the LinkedIn platform users can include education, work experience, skills, and interests. This allows for connections and future employers to see why someone might be a good candidate for a job position. In the digital world it is hard to be oblivious to the fact that during the hiring process interviewers look candidates up online prior to bringing someone in for an interview. With that in mind it makes sense to have a professional LinkedIn page that will help to get the job.

“My resume tells my talents and abilities; however, my portfolio is how I can demonstrate them. My portfolio shows the employer/client my style, the work I can create, and the tools and programs I master. It talks about my experience level, and it tells them if my style is the one they are looking for in the position they are hiring for.” Ana Perez, Graduate Assistant of Digital Design for Alvernia University’s the O’Pake Institute.

Digital Portfolios allow professionals to have a platform where they can add all their work. Artists can upload their artwork where other business professionals like marketers can add marketing campaigns, social media posts, and press releases. While these are just a few examples the possibilities really are endless.

“Creating a personal brand takes a lot of work. You need to find the shape, color, and font that represents YOU personally and professionally. You are showing your employers your personality and character by completing your own personal brand. Creating your personal brand and putting together a portfolio takes a lot of commitment, creativity, and effort. Having both shows, you are dedicated and serious about what you do as a professional.” Ana Perez, Graduate Assistant of Digital Design for Alvernia University’s the O’Pake Institute.

LinkedIn and digital portfolios are only two examples of how to begin building a personal and professional brand. Something else to keep in mind is social media. Social media can be a great tool but it is important to be mindful of things that are posted as future employers can see anything that is public on the internet.