Question: What is one piece of advice you'd give recent college grads about building a strong personal brand, even with limited work experience?
Be Genuine
"There is no magic bullet to building a personal brand. I met with an entrepreneur recently who told me of his strategy for making sure people knew who he was and I found it off-putting. The right way to build your brand is to do great work, consistently, over a long period of time. Over deliver every time and people will know who you are."
@MosesOfWatches
Cultivate a Network
"It's important for recent grads to learn that networking is the foundation on which you'll build a career and a booming personal life. It's important to cultivate the relationships you already have, make valuable connections for them, and be specific about how others whom you trust (and vice versa) can help connect you. Then be sure to stay in touch with those with whom you really connect!"
@DarrahB
Audit Your Search Results
"Check Google and Bing to see what comes up for your name. That's where people will start when they look for you. What do those links look like? If they do not look good, or do not lead to you, create a presence. You can use Facebook, Linkedin, About.me, Wix, your own website, blogs, Tumblr, etc, to start creating a presence. Also, check your Google images!"
@Alec_Bowers
Write a Lot
"Start a blog and just start writing at least 100 words everyday. The future of the web, commerce and general business will be driven by digital marketing and communications. If you are able to display your beliefs and skills in the form of a well-written blog, you'll have a leg up on everyone who isn't improving their content creation skills like you are."
@loganlenz
Focus on One Skill
"Focus on building up your experience in one area -- don’t spread yourself too thin. Do one thing, and do it exceptionally well. Be confident that you can do this well. Know how your skill set can contribute to the larger goal. "
@phildumontet
Use Your Network
"A strong recommendation from someone in your network is worth 10 times more than a list of experiences. If someone is willing to stick their neck out and vouch for you to a colleague, that says a lot more than just a paper resume. Show rather than tell!"
@StephenUfford
Show Off Your Work
"I recommend a portfolio website that shows off your unique talents and skill sets. Are you a developer? Show off personal projects you've done that demonstrate what you're capable of. Are you a writer? Post pieces of your best work. Don't be afraid that it's not good enough. We all start somewhere."
@nataliemacneil
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