About a month ago, I wrote about the importance of personal branding for professionals in their 40s and 50s, and the response was overwhelming. Many of you shared that you’re at a crossroads, rethinking your careers, exploring new opportunities, and asking what it really means to stay relevant in a fast-changing, AI-driven world.
To deepen the conversation, I sat down with Temitope Ruth Jacob, a seasoned professional, thought leader, and someone who has walked this journey with clarity and purpose.
Our conversation was honest, practical, and inspiring, and I believe it holds lessons every mid-career professional should take seriously.
Shift from Execution to Influence
Temitope’s first point hit home for me:
“The most important shift is moving from being defined purely by your technical skills or job title to being recognised for the value of your experience, perspective, and leadership. In your 40s, people already know you can ‘do the work.’ What makes you relevant in your 50s is how you translate that expertise into influence, shaping conversations, mentoring others, and being seen as a trusted authority.”
This is a paradigm shift. Your 40s are not about proving competence — they are about expanding your impact. It’s about becoming a person others look to for guidance, inspiration, and clarity, whether in your organisation or your industry.
Personal Branding as a Career Bridge
Temitope also reminded me that personal branding is more than just a buzzword — it’s a lifeline during moments of transition.
“When you have a strong, story-driven brand, people don’t just see you as tied to one company or role; they see you as a leader with transferable value. If you move from corporate leadership into entrepreneurship, your brand helps you carry the trust and visibility you’ve built into your new venture. Similarly, if you reinvent yourself, your personal brand acts as a bridge: it communicates continuity while showing growth.”
This is so powerful for professionals who fear “starting over.” Your personal brand is your reputation and credibility packaged, and when you build it intentionally, it goes with you, wherever you go.
Avoid the CV Trap – Keep Your Brand Alive
Perhaps the most thought-provoking part of our conversation was Temitope’s caution about stagnation:
“The biggest mistake is treating personal branding like a CV; a list of past achievements rather than a living narrative. Many professionals rely too heavily on what they did in their 30s, instead of telling a story that shows who they are now and where they’re heading. Your 40s are not the time to coast; they’re the time to show that your journey is still unfolding.”
This resonated deeply. In a world where technology and industries are evolving quickly, staying silent or static can make you invisible. Your audience; employers, clients, and collaborators need to see your growth in real time.
Now, talking with Temitope reminded me that our 40s and 50s are not just a transition; they are a transformation. This is the season to:
- Step boldly into thought leadership.
- Build trust and influence beyond your job title.
- Use your story to inspire, mentor, and open doors for others.
- Remain a student of life; curious, adaptable, and purpose-driven.
As Temitope said so beautifully, “Your reputation must be tied to the impact you create, not just the tasks you perform.”
So, I leave you with these questions:
- How are you shaping conversations in your organisation or industry today?
- If you transitioned tomorrow into leadership, entrepreneurship, or a whole new path, would your brand carry the trust you need to succeed?
- What part of your personal brand story still needs to be told?
The future of your career and your relevance is personal. Let’s own it together.
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