Why Every EDU Pro Should Build Their Personal Brand

Mallory and Seth dive into the significance of personal branding, especially in today's volatile job market. They share personal stories and actionable advice on how to build and maintain a personal brand that stands out. From leveraging LinkedIn to the power of newsletters and speaking engagements, this episode is packed with tips for higher ed professionals at any stage of their career.

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Key Takeaways

• Audit Your LinkedIn Profile: Ensure it reflects your current skills and professional image.
• Identify Your Expertise: Define what you want to be known for and focus your content around these themes.
• Engage in Content Creation: Start posting on LinkedIn or other platforms to share your knowledge and insights.
• Build Relationships: Networking and personal branding go hand-in-hand; invest in building meaningful connections.
• Embrace Conflict: Don't shy away from sharing controversial or challenging opinions; it can drive engagement and growth.
• Use Tools: Leverage analytics tools like Shield App to optimize your LinkedIn strategy.

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Episode Summary

Why Personal Branding Matters

Seth and Mallory explore how personal branding has been pivotal in their careers. Seth shares how blogging, podcasting, and networking helped him carve out a niche and build Kanahoma, while Mallory reflects on her intentional focus on innovation and helping others as the cornerstone of her brand. They agree that personal branding is not just about visibility but also about creating meaningful opportunities and connections.

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Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

The duo acknowledges the vulnerability that comes with sharing your ideas and navigating imposter syndrome. Mallory emphasizes that it’s okay to not always be right, as conflict and debate often lead to growth and recognition. Seth highlights the importance of “building in the open,” where transparency and authenticity can turn perceived weaknesses into strengths.

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Tools and Strategies to Get Started

For those new to personal branding, Mallory offers a practical roadmap:

1. Audit Your LinkedIn Profile: Optimize your profile to reflect your expertise and professionalism.
2. Identify Your Niche: Reflect on the topics you’re passionate about and the expertise you want to be known for.
3. Start Sharing: Post content regularly, even if it’s just a few insights to start.
4. Use Analytics: Tools like Shield App can help track your LinkedIn performance and refine your strategy.

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The Role of Networking

Personal branding and networking go hand in hand. Conferences, LinkedIn engagement, and collaborative opportunities are vital for turning online content into real-world relationships. The hosts stress that the ultimate goal is to create and nurture a community of like-minded professionals.

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https://engage.element451.com/register

https://hbr.org/2024/05/your-personal-brand-needs-a-refresh-heres-where-to-start

https://www.shieldapp.ai/

https://mailchi.mp/ashleybudd/inbox?mc_cid=f252eae153&mc_eid=481c140c8a

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Connect With Our Hosts:

Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network: The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Some of our favorites include Generation AI and Confessions of a Higher Education Social Media Manager.

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Connect with Us at the Engage Summit: Exciting news — Mallory will be at the 2024 Engage Summit in Raleigh, NC, on June 25 and 26, and we’d love to meet you there! Sessions will focus on cutting-edge AI applications that are reshaping student outreach, enhancing staff productivity, and offering deep insights into ROI.

Use the discount code Enrollify50 at checkout.

Learn more and register at engage.element451.com — we can’t wait to see you there!

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