Your personal brand is how you promote your unique and impressive story. It’s the narrative you use to describe who you are and what experiences make you a desirable candidate. The way you choose to communicate your brand is crucial in marketing yourself effectively.
When telling your story to a potential employer, you should:
- Be compelling and convincing
- Describe how your experiences shape your ability to do the job
- Be clear about your skills
- Demonstrate sincere interest in the work
- Be specific about your achievements
- Show that you are well-rounded and curious
Questions
How do I take stock of my skills and interests?
UMass Career Advisors and websites offer you self-assessment tools to help reflect on your story in preparation for building your personal brand.
How do I use my skills and interests to build my personal brand?
Experiential opportunities that fit your skills and interests—campus jobs, internships, leadership opportunities, student organizations, community-based learning—are some of the best ways to add to your personal brand.
Where can I learn more professional skills?
As a UMass student, you have access to LinkedIn Learning, where you can learn (and track on a LinkedIn profile) hundreds of professional skills, ranging from graphic design to supervision.
How can I practice conversation with a potential employer or internship provider?
Career Services offers interview tools to help you practice and hone your skills. Our Getting Started page also has links for finding help writing resumes and cover letters.
