The Art of Standing Out: A Student's Guide to Personal Branding

Picture this, In Malaysia alone, more than 277,000 students step into the professional world each year through internships, each one hoping to make their mark. They're not just numbers – they're future leaders, innovators, and professionals, all searching for their unique voice in the vast digital landscape of LinkedIn.

Think of personal branding as crafting your own story – one that's authentic, compelling, and uniquely yours. It's like being both the author and the main character of your professional journey. Your skills, experiences, and values aren't just bullet points on a resume; they're chapters in your ongoing narrative.

Tales from the LinkedIn Trenches

Let me share with you the stories of three students who mastered the art of personal branding:

Kelly Lai Yan Kei turned her LinkedIn profile into a digital diary of growth. Through her posts, she didn't just list her experiences – she painted vivid pictures of her challenges, victories, and lessons learned. Each update became a window into her professional evolution, showing potential employers not just what she did, but who she was becoming.

Then there's Yasmin Zalikha, who became known as the ever-present learner. She didn't just attend industry events; she became their storyteller. Through her engaging posts about conferences and workshops, she built bridges between the academic world and industry professionals, creating a network that buzzed with possibilities.

Bryan Wilson took a different approach. He transformed his project work into compelling stories of innovation and collaboration. Every post showcased not just the final result, but the journey of problem-solving and teamwork that led there. His profile became a portfolio of real-world solutions, speaking directly to employers looking for practical skills.

Why Your Story Matters

In today's digital age, your personal brand is like a lighthouse in the vast ocean of professionals. It guides opportunities your way, builds trust with potential employers, and connects you with others who share your professional passions. It's not just about being seen – it's about being remembered.

Writing Your Own Story

Chapter 1: Creating Your Digital Home

Start with your LinkedIn profile – your professional home on the internet. Choose a photo that speaks of professionalism but feels authentically you. Craft a headline that captures not just what you do, but what you aspire to become. Write a summary that tells your story in your voice, sharing your journey, passions, and goals.

Chapter 2: Sharing Your Journey

Don't just document your achievements – celebrate them. Share the projects that make you proud, the challenges that taught you valuable lessons, and the victories, both big and small. Make it a weekly ritual to share updates that reflect your growth.

Chapter 3: Building Your Community

Your story gains strength when it intertwines with others. Connect with professionals who inspire you, join conversations in your field, and participate in groups that align with your interests. Every comment, like, and share adds another layer to your professional narrative.

Keeping Your Story Alive

Remember, your personal brand is an ongoing story, not a one-time tale. Keep it fresh with regular updates about your learning journey. Engage with others' stories through thoughtful comments and shares. Build meaningful connections that could become future chapters in your professional story.

The Final Chapter (That Never Ends)

Your personal brand isn't just about landing an internship – it's about building a foundation for your entire career. It's about creating a professional identity that opens doors, builds connections, and sets you apart in a crowded digital world. Every post, every interaction, and every shared experience adds to your unique story.

Remember, in the vast professional landscape, your story is your strength. Make it authentic, make it engaging, and most importantly, make it yours.

Written by Shalini Subramaniam, helping individuals and organizations build powerful personal brands.