The Power of Personal Branding in Professional Growth

I once had a profound conversation with a prominent figure in the media space whose words have left an indelible mark on me. At the time, being in my tertiary education, I believed I could freely make any choices I wanted. However, his insights challenged my perspective and offered a fresh, impactful outlook that resonated not just with me but with many others who had the privilege of listening.

It all started when some students pursuing professional courses began dressing provocatively, mistakenly equating this behavior with living their best lives. Many were practically unclothed, and despite the disapproval of some, few dared to confront the issue. It took the courage of an upright lecturer to take action—barring some from her class and denying others entry to the school premises. While her actions sparked outrage among a few, she stood firm, embodying a motherly sense of care that refused to condone such behavior, particularly among the young ladies.
One memorable instance was when a renowned media critic and academician in Ghana openly addressed the matter during a campus visit. His candid comments drew ire, leading to him being summoned before the “Sanhedrin” of the school leadership. Yet, despite the backlash, his words struck a chord with many. His forthrightness even embarrassed his hosts, who had invited him.
This media expert made a compelling statement: based on the demeanor and attire of many students, particularly the ladies, he admitted he would struggle to pass most of them during job interviews if he were on an interview panel. He emphasized, “Branding is key,” underscoring the importance of personal presentation and its impact on professional opportunities. He stressed that no media organization would want its reputation tarnished by individuals who failed to uphold standards of decency.
That simple but powerful message, “Branding is key,” has remained with me, continually shaping my perspective on life and guiding my decisions across various aspects of personal and professional development.