Build a Professional Brand

Why Your Brand Matters

Think of your professional brand as your reputation + your voice. It helps employers, mentors, and connections understand who you are, what you care about, and what you’re working toward. The goal isn’t to be perfect—it’s to be consistent, confident, and true to yourself.

Start With These Key Elements

1. Your Introduction
Be ready to answer: “Tell me about yourself.” Practice a short introduction that highlights your background, interests, and goals.

2. Your Resume & LinkedIn
These are often your first impression. Make sure your resume is clear, accurate, and tailored to your goals—and that your LinkedIn profile reflects the same message. If you haven’t started your LinkedIn yet, now is the time! It’s one of the best tools to begin building your network—connecting with classmates, alumni, faculty, and professionals in your field.

3. Your Online Presence
Google yourself. What comes up? Clean up old social media accounts, adjust privacy settings, and make sure anything public supports your professional image.

4. Your Voice
What do you want to be known for? Consider the way you present yourself in emails, interviews, class projects, or even group chats. Be reliable, respectful, and intentional in how you communicate.

Tips to Build a Strong Brand

• Create a consistent message across your resume, LinkedIn, and personal introduction
• Use a professional headshot
• Highlight your accomplishments and unique skills—not just job titles
• Ask mentors, professors, or peers how they would describe you
• Keep learning and growing—your brand evolves with you
• Use LinkedIn not just as a profile—but as a way to follow companies, join conversations, and connect with people in your field

Get Support

We’re here to help you build a brand that feels authentic and effective. Whether you need help writing your LinkedIn summary, creating your first post, or practicing your elevator pitch, we’ve got you covered.

📅 Make an appointment on Handshake
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