As a recent graduate, I thought good grades and a polished CV were enough. Spoiler: they weren’t.
After applying to over 30 graduate roles without success (very few interviews), I realised I needed to do something different. That’s when I discovered the power of personal branding.
What Is a Personal Brand
It’s not about becoming “famous.” It’s about clarity and consistency in how you show up—online and offline. For me, that meant defining what I stood for:
A passion for ethical, data-driven marketing
Curiosity about consumer behaviour in the Gen Z era
A creative but analytical approach to solving problems
Once I had that, I could bring it into every conversation, post, and application.
What I Did Differently To Drive My Personal Brand
Updated my LinkedIn headline to reflect my interests and value, not just “Business Graduate.”
Started a blog (this one!) to share what I was learning.
Created a one-page personal website with my resume, side projects, and a bit about me.
Reached out to alumni and professionals with a brand-aligned message—and people responded.
What I Learned
Your personal brand helps you become memorable in a sea of applicants.
It gives you something to talk about in interviews beyond the generic answers.
Most importantly, it gives you clarity about your path—even when things feel uncertain.
Our Final Thoughts
Building a personal brand isn’t just about getting hired. It’s about becoming more intentional, confident, and visible.
If you’re a graduate trying to stand out, I highly recommend starting with one small step: write down what makes you different—and tell the world.
Today I have an entry level role in digital marketing with an international organisation. I will be using my brand for growth throughout my career, tweaking when necessary.
