7 steps to build a distinct personal brand aligned to your world, work and passions. 70 minutes. 2007

Ever wondered how some people seem to have it all worked out? They are successful both at home and at work, and they seem to attract all the right opportunities. A distinctive personal brand differentiates you from your competition, confers top of mind status, attracts the right people and opportunities, and increases your earning power. In today's world, as Tom Peters, observed, "you're either distinct or you're extinct." Thebe Ikalafeng, the country's foremost brands and branding authority, succinctly addresses the new differentiator of the 21st century, Personal Branding, in a 70 minute audio book, Personal Branding: 7 steps to build a distinct personal brand aligned to your world, work and passions.

Brands & Branding, 2005, p140 - 144

Traditional marketing no longer works. Traditional paths of brand building are slowly drying up, forcing marketers to think of alternatives. It is important to focus on everything beyond the logo, because a good 90 percent of the real estate on your product or service should also be branded to have a truly enduring brand. Given the role our senses play in our emotional behaviour, it is surprising that close to 98 percent of all communication today is directed solely towards sight and sound. Coca Cola and Woolworths are South Africa's global and local leaders in a survey of the Top 20 Sensory Brands.

Brands & Branding, 2005, p280 - 283

The merger of the old Unisa and Technikon SA, and the incorporation of Vista Vudec to create South Africa's first comprehensive higher education institution, the single dedicated provider of distance education and one of the top 10 mega universities in the world presented a rare challenge to create a new brand with a distinct value promise in an increasingly competitive higher education market.

Brands & Branding, 2005, p258 - 261

The question is always posed whether the state can be regarded as a brand? All leading brands are identifiable by their brand symbols, the brand identity. The identity is not the brand itself, but a visual representation of "the brand inside." The national Coat of Arms, adopted by the Cabinet of South Africa, replacing the one that served the republic since 17 September 1910, is the state's highest visual symbol and singular brand identity that spans all spheres of national governenment. It is the unifying signal and embodiment of its promise, and therefore the focus of perceptions of government.

Brands & Branding, 2003, p13 - 18.

The environment in which we operate has changed. Both the law as guided by King II and ndustry watchdogs, self regulation, society, and the growing anti-brand and anti-globalization advocacy of, inter alia, Naomi Klein's "No Logo," have re-written the rules for business success. Marketing, the anchor of business, as we know and practice it, is history. To build sustainable and profitable brands into the future will depend on the brand owners' ability to leverage 10 fundamental insights and trends.

Brands & Branding, 2002, p17 - 20.

The role of sponsorship in building brand equity is fast eroding the domain once reserved for advertising. Sponsorship is now growing at a faster rate than advertising, and taking a larger share of marketer's demand creation investments. With this prominence, sponsorship is now getting the attention of both the regulators and the consumers, for its impact on the people and planet in which they live. Astute marketers will leverage their investment in sponsorship not only for profit and brand, but also for the benefit of their communities.

Brands & Branding, 2000, p288 - 292

Sport is an inextricable part of the South African culture and fabric. It touches our emotional core like no other activity. In many ways the athletes should the hopes, aspirations, dreams and self-esteem of supporters - the nation. Marketers who want to focus their communication and capitalize on a captive and attentive market at a point in time - sports fans - have incorporated sport sponsorship, which is fast outpacing traditional advertising, in their marketing mix. Properly executed, a strategic sponsorship can go a long way toward building the brand and creating a sustainable competitive advantage.

Black & White Publication & Zebra 1999

A story of hope, inspiration, strength, courage and commitment to an ideal. Starting from her humble beginnings in Sophiatown to her status as the undisputed queen of South African Talk Shows and a successful businesswoman. It is a real life testimony that big dreams do come true, and an inspiration for South Africans from all walks of live.

"Felicia' story will make you laugh, make you weep, and make you sit up and think. I'm glad she dares to dream, because it teaches other women that they can dream too," Gwen Gill, Sunday Times.

Nasou, 1996

A complete career and resource guide for matriculants and high school learners who plan to work and/or study further full-time or part-time after school. It covers the essentials of self analysis, writing CV, planning the career campaign, writing application letters and presenting self for interviews.

"Ikalafeng's latest book equips young South Africans with the necessary skills and directs them to the relevant resources to plan a bright future," Tim Modise, TV & Radio Broadcaster

William Waterman, 1995

The first South African book on personal marketing. A "5-Step Personal Marketing Plan To Win the Job You Want," featuring, planning our job hunting campaign, compiling a winning CV, writing effective customized cover letters, dressing for success and impressing interviewers.

"This book raises your awareness and confidence about your responsibility as a job applicant, particularly in a changing job market that cannot afford to be underpinned by a culture of entitlement," Wendy Luhabe. Founder, Bridging the Gap