2 Developing your professional image
As you embark on your career journey, it is worth taking time to consider the power and significance of a personal brand in employability. With many jobs becoming increasingly competitive, qualifications and skills alone may not be enough. As such, your personal brand becomes a critical differentiating factor (Gorbatov, Khapova, & Lysova, 2019). It represents your unique professional identity and encompasses the perceptions, qualities, and reputation you project to employers, colleagues, and the broader professional community. Personal branding goes beyond simply promoting yourself; it involves building an authentic and compelling narrative that sets you apart from others and communicates your value.
In the next activity you are going to create your own elevator pitch. An elevator pitch is a concise and impactful self-introduction that effectively communicates your value and career aspirations within a short time frame, typically lasting 30-60 seconds. The purpose is to make an effective first impression. If you have never heard of elevator pitches before, why not have a look at some videos on YouTube first?
Activity 2 Crafting your elevator pitch
This activity is split into two tasks:
- Write down the unique skills and experiences that you possess (some of these might come from your involvement in sport), as well as your key strengths, notable achievements, and area(s) or expertise.
- Craft an elevator pitch which follows the below structure:
- Opening: start with a concise and attention-grabbing introduction, mentioning your name, current position/education, and a brief compelling statement.
- Core message: highlight your unique value, emphasising key skills, accomplishments, and relevant experiences.
- Career aspirations: articulate your career goals and how they align with who you are speaking to.
- Call to action: conclude the pitch with a clear request or next step, such as seeking networking opportunities or expressing interest in specific positions or organisations.
You might want to write this out as a script or have some bullet points. Why not take it further by recording your pitch on your smart phone (to have a digital copy to hand at all times) or take the opportunity to practice it in front of others to gather feedback on how to perfect it?
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Your elevator pitch should be delivered with confidence and enthusiasm. You never know when you might have the opportunity to put your pitch into action, so always be prepared to articulate the above bullet points to anyone who might be able to help you with your career.
Beyond the elevator pitch, there are several other ways that you can develop your personal brand to support your career progression. Examples include:
- Online presence: professional platforms like LinkedIn, personal websites, or industry-specific platforms.
- Networking: build relationships, expand your professional connections, and create visibility for your brand. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and participate in online communities related to your field.
- Seek feedback: from trusted mentors, colleagues, or professionals to gain insights into how your personal brand is perceived. Make necessary adjustments based on constructive feedback.
- Continuous learning and growth: invest in your professional development by acquiring new skills and seeking opportunities for growth.