How I Explained Employer Branding to a 5-Year-Old (And Why It Matters)

Muhammad Rizqullah
2 min readSep 1, 2024

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Yesterday, I had one of those moments that made me rethink how we communicate complex ideas. I was with my 5-year-old niece, Rara, at the park, enjoying some ice cream, when she suddenly asked, “What do you do at work?”

Explaining my job to an adult can be tricky enough, but to a 5-year-old? Challenge accepted.

I started with a story she could relate to. “Rara, have you ever noticed how some kids always seem to have the most fun on the playground?” I asked.

She nodded enthusiastically.

“Imagine there’s a group of kids who always have the best toys, share their snacks, and include everyone in their games. They’re known for being fun and kind, so everyone else wants to play with them. That’s kind of like what I do at work. I help companies become that group on the playground — the one everyone wants to join because they’re known for being a great place to be.”

Rara’s face lit up with understanding. “So, you help companies share their toys and snacks?” she asked.

In a way, yes!” I laughed. “I help companies show they’re friendly, fun, and a good place to work. Just like those kids on the playground.

As simple as it was, this analogy clicked. It made me realize that sometimes, the best way to explain something complex — like employer branding — is to break it down into a story anyone can understand.

Takeaways from My Conversation with Rara:

1. Use Stories: A relatable story can make even the most complex ideas easier to understand. Stories are powerful tools for communication.

2. Make It Relatable: Find a way to connect the concept to something familiar in your audience’s world. This makes the idea stick.

3. Keep It Fun and Simple: Don’t get bogged down in technical details. A playful, simple explanation is often more effective.

4. Engage with Questions: Asking questions helps the listener connect the dots and keeps the conversation interactive.

5. Be Open to Learning: Kids can surprise you with their insights — and can teach you how to simplify your own thinking.

As we walked home, Rara tugged at my sleeve and said,

“When I grow up, I want to help companies share their toys too!”

Her words stuck with me. Not only had she understood, but she’d also found something to aspire to. It’s a reminder that the way we explain our work matters — whether we’re talking to a 5-year-old or a potential employee.

So, the next time someone asks you what employer branding is, try thinking of it as a story. You might find it’s easier — and more fun — than you ever thought.

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Muhammad Rizqullah
Muhammad Rizqullah

Written by Muhammad Rizqullah

Interest in Writing, Branding, Partnership, and Human Resource.

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