Recently, pop icon Prince took some time to complain about the Internet. Yes, the Internet, which we all hold near and dear to our hearts–not just for the purpose of entertainment, but for work, research, making connections, and (of course) personal branding, Prince labels it a fad, a waste of time and energy. In his words, the “Internet is completely over.” But he couldn’t be more wrong.
The Internet Lives On
Though Prince may be an expert in fashion and Musicology, his understanding of new media and technology may not be up to par. In case you haven’t heard, the Internet is still surviving and going strong. Though Prince isn’t going to get over his aversion to the Internet anytime soon, his self-proclaimed hatred towards everyone else’s joy having begun in 2007, it’s important that you don’t decide to jump ship too; it won’t be worth it in the end. Prince may not realize or care, but his personal brand is actually suffering by steering clear of the Internet. Taking down his official website, not allowing his music on iTunes or Youtube or anywhere is limiting his audience, not to mention projecting qualities of arrogance and being above it all. Think what you will, Prince, but the Internet is here to stay and can actually help you!
In Reality and Online
It’s clear you can’t have your whole life revolve around growing online and solely developing your brand personality to those you talk to on Twitter or Facebook. You need to be a real person too, and know how to handle and market yourself in everyday life, face to face with other real people. Before the Internet, people had to learn how to make phone calls and meet potential business partners/clients–simpler, real human networking.
While the Internet simplifies that process and allows an easier method of reaching out, it’s still just as important to keep up the same personable qualities out and about in the real world (which I guess Prince has forgotten, with his angry rant about the Internet…he has no real online personality since he’s not online at all).
Boost your Brand Personality
You are the queen or king of your brand personality. You are in complete control of how it’s shaped, how you want to be perceived and where you want it to go with the different connections you make. The Internet is the prince, kind of like a second in command to your efforts. While you shouldn’t rely completely on the Internet to make a name for yourself, having it to bolster your efforts is ultra-convenient. With sites like Twitter and Facebook, there’s no need to rely on old-school techniques when you hold the power to control your online personality, as well as your “real” life brand personality. They should be one and the same and allow you to connect in person and online.
The Internet is and always will be your friend, so use it to its utmost potential to help you shine. Whether or not you like Prince, it’s obvious he has misjudged the Internet. It’s more than a fad; it’s a tool available to everyone, whether they want to chat with friends all day or shape their brand personality. Never underestimate the power the Internet provides you and make sure you fully utilize its tools to their greatest potential. I think the Internet wins this one…sorry, Prince.
Create a Brand-Yourself.com Account to Manage Your Online Reputation!
Brand-Yourself.com is an award winning toolset that helps you proactively manage your online reputation and promote yourself across the social web. Create an account today to see how we can help you win new opportunities, jobs and clients online. It’s easy and it’s fun!
