Why you need to build your personal brand as a Student or Graduate.
Before you land your first role, people are already forming an impression of you. Olivia Kjellsten from our Graduate Talent Acquisition team share her advice on how to shape your unique personal brand intentionally.
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When people talk about personal brand, it can sound like something reserved for senior leaders or for people building a big online presence. But it’s much simpler than that.
Your personal brand is your professional reputation. It’s the impression you leave after an interaction. It’s how people describe you when you’re not in the room. And whether you realise it or not, you’re already building one.
At this stage of your career, your brand isn’t about job titles or years of experience. It’s about how you show up, including the behaviours you show and the attitude you bring. This is especially important as you go through the recruitment process – your interactions with your recruiter, hiring team and other Graduates will all have an impact on your brand. Let’s explore this further.
What personal brand really means
Personal brand is the consistent picture people form of you over time.
It’s reflected in how you prepare for interviews, how clearly you explain your experiences and how you contribute in group discussions. It shows up in the tone of your emails and in how you respond when something doesn’t go to plan.
Over time, these small moments create a pattern. Are you thoughtful? Reliable? Curious? Easy to work with? Open to learning?
Behaviours drive your brand. And consistency builds trust.
Why brand matters as a Graduate
The graduate market is competitive. Many candidates have similar degrees
and strong academic results. What often makes someone stand out is how they treat others, listen, and take on board feedback or challenges.
When you can clearly explain what you enjoy, what you’re good at and how
you like to work, it makes a real difference. It shows self-awareness and
direction. And equally, being able to get the small things right, like showing
up on time, being respectful and willing to learn all impact how you’re
perceived.
A clear personal brand helps others understand where you might fit and how you could contribute. It also makes you more memorable. In a busy recruitment process, clarity matters.
Defining your value
You don’t need an extraordinary story. You just need a clear one.
- Think about the projects you’re proud of and what they demonstrate.
Maybe you led a team through a challenging uni assignment and learned how to manage different viewpoints. - Maybe a part-time role strengthened your resilience and communication skills.
- Or maybe you’ve developed technical expertise through internships or independent study.
Often, it’s the unique combination of your experiences that becomes your
point of difference. When you can explain that combination with confidence and honesty, your brand becomes stronger.
You don’t need an extraordinary story. You just need a clear one.
Your online presence and networking
Your personal brand also extends to your online presence.
You don’t need to post constantly or position yourself as an expert. But it helps to be intentional. Take a look at your personal social media accounts, and make sure they’re reflective of the professional brand you’re hoping to embody.
Update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your interests and strengths. Connect with peers, alumni and professionals in areas you’re curious about. Engage thoughtfully. Share insights from a project or internship if it feels natural.
Professionalism and curiosity go a long way.
Networking at this stage is about building relationships and learning. Introduce yourself respectfully. Ask genuine questions. Show that you’re willing to listen.
Looking ahead
Early in your career, no one expects you to know everything. What matters most is your mindset.
Being coachable. Following through on commitments. Treating people with respect. Taking ownership when things don’t go perfectly. Staying curious and willing to improve.
Those behaviours, repeated over time, shape how others see you. Your personal brand doesn’t start once you land your first role. It starts now. It’s shaped by the habits you build and the way you engage with the opportunities in front of you.
Be clear about who you are. Be consistent in how you show up. Be willing to grow.
That’s what people remember.
- Olivia
Exciting careers start here.
Applying to Deloitte isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being prepared, curious, and genuine. If you’re ready to kickstart your career and make an impact that matters, explore our graduate opportunities and apply now.
Explore and learn more about our Student & Graduate program here.
