NAOMI GARRICK, public relations consultant and the self-professed, ‘PR Chick’, coached members of the Kiwanis Club of Young Professionals Kingston, Jamaica on ‘The Brand You’ at their recent monthly meeting, held at the College of Insurance and Professionals Studies recently.
Lead ‘PR Chick,’ Garrick, in her presentation to club members, which comprised scores of young professionals drawn from various sectors, impressed on the group the need to “know who you are and to live your life based on your core values”. She challenged them to think about their brand in the context of the value they were offering to those they were serving. Noting, “Who do you want the world to see and what do you want to be known for? If it doesn’t fit your brand, don’t do it – stay true to yourself!”
LOOK THE PART
As part of ones personal branding, Garrick outlined the importance of “looking the part”, without being pretentious. “Show up in your space, dress to impress and to always give of your best self,” she declared. In sharing from her own experience, she noted that these elements help to connect individuals to other opportunities, and the relationships we foster can help individuals on their professional path. Adding, “Relationships, reputation and results matter in building your brand.”
Garrick also acknowledged the role of technology and social media in brand building, highlighting that both offer pros and cons, as she noted that with technology and social media, one’s reputation can be built up or tarnished in a matter of minutes or over a short period of time. She further encouraged the Kiwanians to analyse their social media platforms and to determine if their online image aligned with the image they wanted to portray. In parting, she encouraged the members to never stop learning through investing in themselves and their brand.
In delivering her remarks, President Naketa West outlined how valuable the topic was, stating, “I believe that as young professionals who are at the prime of our careers we stand to benefit from further guidance as we build our careers through personal branding.” She further shared that the discussion was timely as at the beginning of the new year, many persons pause to reflect on the past year and make plans for the new year. As such, it was important to empower members of the club to develop themselves in all spheres of their lives.
Article taken from the Jamaica Gleaner.
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