This week we were asked to think about personal branding.
“the conscious and intentional effort to create and influence public perception of an individual by positioning them as an authority in their industry, elevating their credibility, and differentiating themselves from the competition, to ultimately advance their career, increase their circle of influence, and have a larger impact.” (personalbrand.com)
We were asked the following and to share any thoughts or comments we had about our experiences.
Have you made any steps towards creating a personal brand? The idea comes naturally to some, while to others, the very thought of building a personal brand can make them cringe. If you can get beyond the marketing hype and buzz words, a lot of the time the personal brand is more about reputations and getting yourself out there.
For this week’s Spark forum, we’d love to hear your thoughts and feelings about creating a personal brand. This is a great opportunity to share any resources you already have such as portfolio websites, social networking accounts, style guides, CVs or anything else you think is relevant.
It wasn't until late last year I started to actually think about creating a brand. Prior to this, I didn't have a name when I published a game, I just used my real name. I had a small community of people from before when I did the odd YouTube video. I then rebranded my twitter account, YouTube & Itchio page and started a Patreon page for people who wanted access to my games for free, and early access.
The whole process of rebranding has gone well. I now have a community of over 300 active users, Patreon is going well & my games are now consistently played by people all over the internet.
My Logo:
Week 11 Challenge Activity: Once you have completed as much of The Art of the Approach curriculum as you timed for, share some or all of your results from the activities in the forum below. As part of the discussion, reflect on your progress through the curriculum. Consider how what you have learned from the curriculum might impact the rest of your studies. More specifically, how will you ensure that all the effort you invest in your studies aligns with your personal brand and aspirations for the future?
Works, R., 2021. Welcome. [online] Realworks.careercentre.me. Available at: <https://realworks.careercentre.me/resources/taskmanager/default.aspx?ProgrammeID=0CEjEGg1TYV2%20GCek1zfiQ==> [Accessed 27 April 2021].
I've really enjoyed the course so far and I feel like I have learned a lot especially through my own self reflection. Now whenever I start a new project I am always using the techniques that I have been taught through the module.
I think that the topics that have been covered in this module like Scrum, Agile frameworks, different styles of thinking such as brainstorming, blue sky thinking, and even paper prototypes have all earned a place in my arsenal of techniques to consider when making a new artefact. I feel that these methods have amplified my work to allow me to be more creative with design and concept and all the way through to delivery. I plan have a more streamlined plan of approach when working, making time for testing and alteration via my connections to other developers. Using this feedback to make changes and then re-test again.
I really found the Real Works content helpful especially in regards to the following up of questions when interviewed. I have never really done this, and the whole concept around the value of my "No" really stuck out to me. From now on, when applying for jobs I will use the below method to help me gain feedback and to also show my engagement with said company.
1. Introduce yourself and ask the employer for a few minutes. Use their name.
2. Check your application has been received.
3. Be engaging and specific in your discussion, use the points you highlighted in your cover letter. Ask open questions (who, what, when, why, how).
4. Ask the employer for any questions they may have. Be prepared to answer.
5. Be polite and professional.
Employers will not respond well to an unprepared or unfocused call from a job seeker so make sure you have planned what you are going to say. If necessary have a brief script to help you feel more confident. Here’s an example:
“This is ______ calling. A few days ago I had applied for the ______ position in your company. I’m calling to make sure you received my CV and reiterate my interest in the position.”
Think about the questions an employer might want to ask you and what your answers are going be. Be sure to practise your words until they sound unscripted before you pick up the phone.
If a follow-up phone call sounds intimidating send a follow up email, simply checking that your application has been received and reiterating your enthusiasm for the company and role. Again, keep it brief.
Most of all, in all communication with employers, recruitment consultants or anyone connected to the hiring process, show enthusiasm.
Flex.falmouth.ac.uk. 2021. Log in to canvas. [online] Available at: <https://flex.falmouth.ac.uk/courses/911/discussion_topics/19908?module_item_id=49222> [Accessed 27 April 2021].
Works, R., 2021. Welcome. [online] Realworks.careercentre.me. Available at: <https://realworks.careercentre.me/resources/taskmanager/default.aspx?ProgrammeID=0CEjEGg1TYV2%20GCek1zfiQ==> [Accessed 27 April 2021].
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