Everything changed when I found a mentor who showed me the importance of personal branding. As a final-year student, I discovered how to leverage this skill to advance my career and position myself as an emerging PR professional. While the guidance imparted many valuable lessons, the most transformative was understanding the true power of social media.

Thanks to these teachings, I secured an internship with one of the most awarded PR agencies. My personal branding strategy included connecting with industry leaders, researching their work and understanding the value I could offer when I joined their companies. Less than six months after graduation, I landed a job.

Attending events such as the PRISM Awards as a volunteer, where I assisted with logistics, helped me make a name for myself. Through these connections and experiences, I gained visibility in the industry and built strong relationships with key agencies. 

Personal branding doesn't stop at an online presence, it requires in-person efforts too. This means attending seminars, industry lectures, masterclasses and other events that provide access to industry leaders.

For fresh graduates and aspiring PR professionals, the learning process about the PR world starts now and never stops.

Graduates can begin by engaging with industry leaders on LinkedIn and connecting with PR agencies on social media. Join industry-related WhatsApp groups. The earlier you integrate this into your life, the better positioned you will be for success.

For more information, visit www.bdcomms.co.za. You can also follow ByDesign Communications on X.

*Image courtesy of contributor