Aotearoa’s labour market is rather unpredictable at the moment. In an uncertain landscape that is always shifting, this can make job hunting challenging. As we head into the new year, many will be looking to secure new opportunities or may be experiencing restructures or redundancy. In such a climate, a strong personal brand is more than just helpful — it’s essential. Perfecting how you present yourself can be the difference between landing your dream role and being overlooked.

Ange and Junelle from Mana Mahi are experienced recruiters with two decades of experience across a range of sectors. They offer some valuable advice on elevating your personal brand before you start your job hunt.

‍What is Personal Branding?

Personal branding is more than just a buzzword — it's about defining and communicating who you are, what you stand for, and what sets you apart. In Ange's words, personal branding is "a strategic approach to showcasing your values, skills, and vision." Whether you're climbing the corporate ladder or launching a startup, your personal brand plays a critical role in your success.

1. ‍Know Your Why: The foundation of a strong personal brand is clarity about your purpose. Why do you do what you do? What drives you? Defining your "why" will shape how you present yourself to the world to align with the right opportunities.
2. Authenticity is Key: Your personal brand should reflect your true self. Ange emphasised the importance of being genuine, stating, "People connect with authenticity. It's what makes your story relatable and memorable."
3. Consistency is Critical: From your LinkedIn profile to your elevator pitch, maintaining a consistent image and message across platforms ensures your audience understands who you are and what you offer.
4. Cultural Identity as a Strength: Being Māori is our superpower. For Māori professionals, integrating cultural heritage into their personal brand can be a powerful differentiator. Ange and Junelle encouraged participants to embrace their whakapapa (genealogy) and weave it into their professional narratives.
5. Networking with Purpose: Using whakawhanaungatanga to building meaningful connections is at the heart of personal branding. Ange reminded attendees that networking isn't just about what others can do for you but about creating reciprocal relationships that align with your goals.

Personal branding is a journey of self-discovery and intentionality. It's not just about crafting a polished résumé or mastering the art of self-promotion — it's about understanding your unique value and communicating it effectively.

With Aotearoa’s labour market facing challenges, investing time in perfecting your personal brand is a strategic move for those seeking new roles in the coming year. Define your "why," highlight your strengths, and let your authentic self shine as you navigate the job market.

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