When you think of branding, your mind might immediately go to the many ways that businesses use marketing to create their own “brand identity.” But in our modern, media-driven world, branding has become an important idea for individuals as well – especially when it comes to pursuing a successful career.

Luckily, you don’t have to be a marketing expert to create and promote your personal and professional brand. In fact, you can do it all directly from your smartphone! There are many ways to use mobile apps for professional branding, with options to suit different goals, career fields, and preferences.

Today, we’re going to walk you through the basics of creating a professional brand, covering:

• Why do you need a personal/professional brand
• Tips for developing your professional brand on mobile apps
• How to learn more about media and branding for your career goals

What is a Professional Brand?

Essentially, your professional brand is the online persona and reputation you present, specifically viewed by potential employers, networking connections, and others within your career world. Your brand is a purposeful means for communicating exactly what it is you have to offer as a professional.

In other words, it tells the story of your career in a way that a basic resume simply can’t. 

Why Professional Branding is So Important

So, do you really need a professional brand? The answer is an emphatic yes.

According to Huffington Post, about 80% of employers use Google to learn more about a candidate before offering an interview. With a strong professional (and personal) brand, you can take a proactive role in this unofficial pre-screening process.

Other perks of building your brand include:

• Communicating a clear message about your strengths, experience, and goals
• Strengthening your authority and expertise
• Distinguishing yourself from other job candidates
• Expand networking opportunities

How to Create a Personal Brand Using Mobile Apps & Media

Here are some simple tips for developing a personal brand you’re proud of:

Start by taking inventory of your assets.

Your assets are all of the characteristics, skills, and experiences that make you unique, including those that make you valuable to potential employers or clients. Avoid selling yourself short by taking the time to gather all your assets, so that you can paint a detailed picture of who you are in a professional sense.

These assets might include:

• Skills: Whether you’ve built skills through education, training, or experience (or all of the above), they are an asset you’re bringing to the table. 
• Passions: What drives you to strive to be better in your career? These passions show exactly how and why you’re driven to succeed.
• Credentials: Certifications, training, licenses, and other professional credentials are a good addition to your brand.
• Core beliefs and values: Employers and clients are searching for candidates that share their values, so be honest about yours to set yourself up for a good match.

Build and edit your social media presence.

Social media apps such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter have the power to make or break your brand. The last thing you want is for a prospective employer to discover personal content that you would rather only friends and family were privy to. Do a thorough check of your current social media content, clearing out content and adjusting privacy settings as needed.

Then, use apps to create a strong professional presence. LinkedIn is one of the best apps for professional branding, but Twitter, Facebook, and even Instagram can be just as useful.

Develop a better understanding of how to effectively use media, branding, and marketing strategies for your purposes.

There are so many benefits to developing your own media skills, regardless of what job you’re hoping to have in the future. With a solid foundation of media-savvy knowledge, you can make sure that you’re well-equipped to stand out in even the most competitive of industries – and grab the attention of potential employers in all the right ways.

At the BeonAir Network of Media Schools, with campuses located in Miami, Chicago, Colorado, and Ohio, we’ve developed an innovative new program for individuals that want to learn how to use media to further their career. Our Digital Media Production program is designed to take students on a journey through a variety of mediums, ranging from traditional to cutting-edge. Participants discover the best practices for branding (both personal and business), marketing, imaging, and more, building a unique skill set that will serve them well in their respective fields.

Learn How to Use Media to Achieve Your Career Goals

If you’re ready to make a smart investment in your professional future, our Digital Media Production could be the answer you’re searching for. Learn more about our program options and how to apply by contacting our team today!

 

Image Source: fizkes / Shutterstock