3 Super Important Things for Recent Grads to Consider for Personal Branding
So you want to brand yourself online right? It's more than images and colors, but today we are starting with those things because frankly they are super important. Are you using social media to get a job? What do your profiles say about you? I am a first generation college graduate with a love for personal style, open dialogue and all things girly. (Hence why you're looking at a ton of hot pink!) We're going to get into my story in a bit. Below are 3 style rules for personal branding and a ton of examples.
My Story
If you've been following me for awhile then you know that I've changed the colors for my blog, layout and social media images at least 10 times since Thanksgiving. I wasn't ever pleased with what I saw until last night. Hot pink is my color and I'm sticking to it. I have had enough of the changes. I'm also a huge fan of straight hair, so my new images reflect that as well. No, I did not relax my hair before anyone ask. I decided to go with the colors (pink with a dash of yellow) and look (simple) that embody Jasmine Diane the person, which ultimately reflects Jasmine Diane the brand. It's taken me a couple of years to feel comfortable with using pink on my blog and resume, but I'm here now and never going back. Playing it safe is no longer allowed.
Be True to Yourself
Authenticity is key when creating your online image. People can spot a fake from a mile away. In the beginning, you'll mock your favorites and be overwhelmed. Push through the anxiety and force yourself to ignore the outside influences that tell you that you have to be perfect. Respect the process and trust the path that God laid for your life. For example, if you're a shoe hoarder with a passion for fashion focus on footwear not natural hair. If you love to sing, build your soundcloud and youtube channels up. Do what makes sense for your brand, not what's popular. Kathryn of Kathryn Elise Studios does a really great job with her instagram. All of her photos are bright and use some form of white space. Check it out here.
Have Fun
You are creating your image, so enjoy it. If you don't like looking at or reading what you have created, why would anyone else? Be authentic and excited about your image. You have the power to create yourself online, so use it wisely. Whatever you enjoy and whoever you are, is enough. Use words and colors that amplify your personality. For example, I talk a lot and I'm pretty feminine so pink works well for me. I'm also a little OCD so white space on my website gives off a very organized and open feel. I want my readers to enjoy coming to my site and to focus on my content without distractions. Maricia of MusingsofKrav.com does a really amazing job with her instagram content. She is consistent with her filters and has a good mix of lifestyle + professional images. @musingsofkrav is easily in my top 5 of instagram accounts to follow.
Stick To It
This one is the absolute hardest in my opinion. Choose to stick to your guns with your online image. I have been blogging for going on 4 years and just recently began to create a strong brand image for Jasmine Diane. My instagram page, @thejasminediane, really set the tone for my brand. People are visual creatures with short attention spans, so give them something authentic and powerful to look at. For example, Shelby of BronzeBombshell.com was featured on Vogue.com for her signature red lipstick and red nail polish. She is #blackgirlmagic and I'm so stoked for her! You can read the article here.
Thank you for reading about personal branding. Don't forget to subscribe and read why no one is following you on instagram here. What's your twitter username? I want to connect with you!
Peace.
