How students market themselves as a brand

Abbie English

• Why is it important?• What do we mean by personal branding?• What are the tools?• Pro’s and con’s of some tools

What we will cover?

Why is it important?

• Core product is the same• Need to differentiate in saturated market• The products we choose reflect upon us• How will they perform?

Personal branding?

Brand values

• What are your student’s core values?– Team work– Communication skills– Passion for their subject– Leadership

• How would they evidence this? Proof?– Work experience, volunteering, hobbies, teams,

school projects…

The tools

• Marketing tools – logo, strap line, product, promotion, price, PR, CSR, website, social media, employees

• Student tools – CV/personal statement, personal appearance, interview, showreels, portfolios, testimonials, online presence

Social mediaCon’s•Inappropriate photo’s•Inappropriate email address•Arguments/controversial views/opinions•Connect with tutors•Liking inappropriate items•Using bad language

Pro’s•Blogs, social platforms for debating etc.•Showcasing work – showreels, art work, performances etc.•Using it as a research tool – follow University on Facebook, Twitter etc, Google alerts etc.•Actively promote themselves

Summary

• Qualifications alone are not enough• Differentiating themselves is ongoing project• Maintain and develop their brand• Use the marketing tools at their disposal• The sooner they start the better