Teens now are more a part of the adult world than a childhood. They are exposed to huge brands and targeted as a major market. That is why they need to be aware of some marketing coinage, and even use these for their own benefit. Today, we have taken up one such concept - personal branding – and we are going to explain it in teen terms.
What is personal branding and do teens need it too?
Personal branding, simply put, is the way a person wants to be seen and known. Why do people need personal branding? It helps them solidify the image he or she has built and wants to stick to. For a teenager, it’s like deciding what kind of person they are, what choices they want to make, and what their interest areas are. Personal branding can help a teen make friends, run a good online presence, and perhaps even build a career.
Where does personal branding start for a teenager?
It starts on the personal front with clothes, study subject choice, habits and interests. As a parent, you must have heard your teen talk about a ‘sporty type’, ‘an artistic type’, or even an ‘a geeky type’. Though it might sound funny, they are describing personal branding at a nascent stage. Help your kid to figure out what makes them most comfortable, and build on that as their personal brand in every walk of life.
Creating a positive virtual brand is important for teens
The internet can be accessed by people from all over the world, including strangers. It won’t be long before college authorities or prospective employers would be looking at your teen’s profile before they accept a higher study application or offer a job. Make sure your teen is maintaining a true-to-self but positive personal branding on the web. Explain the importance of a clean internet image to them, laying stress on good internet habits and the pitfalls of indulging in bad habits such as spamming, stalking or trolling.
Ensure your teen believes in the personal brand statement they are making
No one likes a fake. If your daughter is a nerd, there’s no need for her to look like a beauty queen, and if your son likes wearing smart formals, it doesn’t make him less cool. Personal branding is an extension of the self. A teen who is happy with him or herself, will automatically be a great brand.