I was in the shower this morning (is that too much information, already? If it is, pretend I was just in the kitchen) and I began thinking about America’s Next Top Model. For those who know me, that’s not out of the ordinary… at all. For those who aren’t familiar with ANTM (if you aren’t, we should talk), it is a reality TV competition for models created by Tyra Banks. The current cycle of ANTM is called America’s Next Top Model All Stars because Tyra has brought back girls from past cycles to compete for the ultimate Top Model prize package and also for redemption. You see, none of these “All Stars” won their previous cycle. Most did not even come close.

There’s the girl who’s remembered for not wanting to take her clothes off, the model whose food was stolen, and there are one or two girls who I’m convinced were never even on ANTM. Despite not winning, all have gone on to successful careers. How did they do it? Brand recognition. The girls who have used their experiences (negative or otherwise) to their advantage, have a career. At the very least, it got them back on the show. So what does all of this mean in social media? Let’s talk about online personal branding. (more…)