What do you do if your personal brand is not helping you navigate career transitions?

Revisit Your Why. We Africans understand the power of purpose. Take a moment, like sitting under the baobab tree, and reflect on why this career shift is calling to you. What new skills or passions are you pursuing? Realigning your brand with your renewed purpose will give it direction and authenticity.

Seeking feedback on your brand is crucial. As a human, we have blinders on for ourselves. We see what we are doing and will criticize before we praise. If we ask our friends, colleagues, and network what they think, it can help to solidify what we are doing. As a candidate, we should be sharing and growing our brand to be a candidate brand and showing our worth to potential jobs. When you apply for a new job, the hiring managers will search your LinkedIn and see what you are sharing. This is a great way to stand out from just a piece of paper. You can have your network help but having them audit your profile as well.

Seek Out New Watering Holes. Our network is our lifeline. Go beyond your usual circles and connect with people in your desired field. Attend industry events, join online forums, or strike up conversations with those already where you want to be. This exposure allows you to showcase the transferable skills you possess and build a reputation in your new domain.

Storytelling is Key. Africans have a rich tradition of oral narratives. Use that to your advantage! Craft your career story – how your past experiences and skills bridge the gap to your new goals. Share this story in conversations, online profiles, or even a personal blog. People connect with stories, and yours can demonstrate your adaptability and growth.

Don't Be Afraid to Hustle. We Africans know the value of hard work. Demonstrate your commitment to the new path. Take relevant courses, volunteer your skills, or even start a small side project in your desired field. This "hustle" showcases your initiative and builds a track record in your new area of expertise.

Remember, your personal brand is not set in stone. It's a living thing, evolving with your journey. With these adjustments, you can transform your brand into a powerful tool that navigates your career transition with success. Now go forth and make your ancestors proud!