Blog Entry # 4

Calvin Hayes

Blog Entry # 4

The article titled “Building Your Personal Brand” by Sherri Bakshi explains the importance of marketing yourself as a talented professional in order to yield positive results. Bakshi suggests that individuals seeking to be marketable in the PR profession should volunteer their talents; get published frequently, take advantage of public speaking engagements and join a local PRSA chapter. Additionally, Bakshi recommends that PR professionals constantly assess and increase their likeability. According to Bakshi, likeability is accomplished by developing an attractive personality, having respect for people’s names, keeping a smile and handling complaints as well as criticisms with grace. Overall, the author indicates that likeability is an inside job and that we must work hard to increase our personal worth.

Sherrie Bakshi advises individuals to seek out speaking opportunities in order to improve their personal brand. I think public speaking is especially important because it involves capitalizing on a skill that is rare but greatly needed. Some people’s biggest fear is speaking in front of others. If an individual can communicate ideas and goals in a powerful way, they could potentially motivate others to action. During my college career I have capitalized on numerous speaking opportunities. As a campus leader, I have traveled around the county recruiting for FAMU and representing the university at several community events. In addition, I have won several oratorical competitions for different civic organizations that I belong to.  On my internship, I could use my speaking ability to facilitate study abroad seminars and convince students to engage in coursework in different countries.

I personally believe that individuals should seek to improve their personal brand daily. Being an effective PR professional is about contributing your talents in both a tangible and a personal manner. In order to improve your personal brand, I suggest that individuals find a niche and work hard to make it a great asset.  Being able to complete tasks that others cannot will always keep a PR professional in demand. Additionally, individuals should seek to constantly expand their professional networks and stay connected to people who are where they want to be. Finally, if an individual is to truly increase their personal brand, reading daily and learning a foreign language is a must.