Why you should have a personal website as a PR professional

By Kelly Hayes

When thinking about personal branding online, the first thought that comes to mind is usually social media. However, what else can be done? A personal website is the cherry on top of your personal brand. It explains your personality, your skills, who you are and what you do.

Why have a personal website you ask? Well… why not? It can be as simple as an online portfolio with your resume and relevant works or it can be an entire blog. Personally, I took the blogging approach.

If you have strong writing skills, showcase them! Having a personal website link on your business card/resume will not only look good, but it will showcase your skills to employers. I keep a personal blog as my personal website because I enjoy writing and it makes me feel good when others read my posts and give me positive feedback. There are things you should remember such as spelling and grammar, but make sure your personal website showcases who you are and what you are capable of.

When thinking about what website to use as your platform, I usually suggest WordPress. There are other options such as pressfolios.com, flavors.me (more stylish) or about.me. I would stay away from Blogger because the layouts aren’t always innovative and in my opinion, it doesn’t come off as professional as some of the others listed. If you’re stuck and looking for inspiration, check out some fellow colleagues blogs such as PR and Pixie Dust by Sarah Rachul, Jess Carnprobst and Briagenn Adams. Reminder: all of these are WordPress websites.

Moving forward, remember that applying yourself in the digital realm and showcasing your work online will only help you in trying to land that dream internship or job.

“Absorb what is useful. Discard what is not. Add what is uniquely your own.” – Bruce Lee

Kelly Hayes is a junior studying Strategic Communications. Follow her on twitter @kmshayes or on her blog at kellymshayes.wordpress.com.