Image is Everything?

The Cannon camera company had an "Image is Everything" commercial that was pretty popular in the 1990's. It featured tennis star Andre Agassi who was known for being flashy. While the commercial was popular, it was also pretty controversial. Was image everything? Weren't people more than just their looks? Shouldn't you get to know someone for who they are and not just judge the 'book by the cover?'

According to BusinessInsider.com, image is very important.  According to their blog, "the way you present yourself has a profound impact on your career. And it's not just your body language or how you dress, the Internet has presented folks with countless new ways to bolster their personal brand -- or completely ruin it."  (Read more: http://www.businessinsider.com/why-your-image-is-everything-12-2011?op=1#ixzz2grX2ubxF)

I share this quote with you because of the last four words... 'or completely ruin it.'

Technology affords us many opportunities. Just one of which is the opportunity to share our image with the class, school, community, and world. As we are learning to be good digital citizens, it is important for us to remember that our image isn't everything... but it is a very important thing. A positive image is helpful. A negative image may be disastrous. Business Insider goes on to say

• it takes 0.1 seconds to make a lasting impression on a stranger.
• 45% of employers use social media when making hiring decisions.
• your reputation impacts others that share your name (your family).
• if it's on the internet, it could be there forever.

As you select images to use in web profiles (like MBC or other social media), post in photo galleries, or use in presentations, ask yourself if the image will help or hurt you. Think about this every time you post an image. Every time you post an image your are creating your brand.

And just in case you don't know this already, sticking out your tongue in a sexual manner, holding a camera above your head to take a picture of your cleavage, pulling up your shirt to photo your belly, posing with smooch lips, and flashing gang signs will NEVER get you a scholarship. These photos do not enhance your brand. These photos can embarrass your family and likely embarrass your children when they see them in 30 years! For all of these reasons, these photos should not be used in MBC or in your PST Conference ePortfolio.

I challenge each of you this week to think about your Conference ePortfolio cover shot. Your task is to capture a picture of yourself as a learner. Be creative. Make a quality brand. And don't stick your tongue out.