"PUKAW" seminar guides future professionals on strong media branding

Report by Ellyza Jane Gutierrez | Photos by Joaquin Umali

In the recently launched seminar titled "PUKAW: Your Image, Your Brand," media expert Kelvin Ramos Aguilar and communication student speakers engaged an audience of aspiring media professionals in a discussion on impactful personal branding yesterday at the Theater Room, Smith Hall Building, TSU - Main Campus.

The seminar culminated with guest speaker Aguilar, a media industry professional, business owner, and educator, who provided a real-world perspective on personal branding.

With his extensive experience, Aguilar shared personal anecdotes and behind-the-scenes insights to reinforce the significance of consistent effort in building a strong professional image.

"If you really want to boost your credibility, your branding as a professional, make sure you have a consistent online presence [...] Sometimes, you are not everyday motivated to do things, but if you are consistent with the things that you want to achieve, kakapitan din kayo ng audience niyo," he advised.

Meanwhile, student speaker JC Talavera commenced the seminar by discussing the importance of building an online presence and leveraging social networks for job hunting. He further highlighted the need to translate one's skills and experiences into a unique digital identity.

Host Ace Tiagan then took the stage, stressing that approximately 70% of employers conduct online searches to screen potential candidates. With this, he urged attendees to utilize online platforms strategically to showcase their skills.

"Ipakita niyo kung sino kayo. Ipakita niyo kung anong kaya niyong gawin, kasi hindi lang ito basta magaling ka, kundi basta nakikita ka nilang magaling at hindi ka mahirap hanapin," Tiagan emphasized.

Furthermore, Shane Cacho revealed strategies for effective personal branding and addressed common pitfalls, advising against inconsistency, overconfidence without substance, and the failure to adapt to evolving trends.

"Visibility creates opportunity. Kung hindi ka nakikilala, you will not be remembered. And, if you are not remembered, you will be easily replaced," she stated.

Maintaining the lively atmosphere, Jo-Airah Morillo entertained the audience with interactive icebreakers and also shared tips on managing online reputation. Additionally, Rico Valencia discussed boosting career opportunities and increasing visibility through industry and digital networking.

With the competitive job market in today's digital world, PUKAW seminar provided practical knowledge for students to set their career paths in the industry by crafting an impactful personal brand.