Professor Robert Ebo Hinson, ranked by the AD Scientific index in four consecutive years as Africa’s leading marketing scholar and faculty member at the University of Ghana Business School, has delivered a compelling seminar to doctoral students at the University of Ghana, emphasizing the critical role of intentional networking, humility, and personal branding in achieving academic and professional success.
The lecture formed part of a 3-day PhD Thesis Bootcamp organized by the University of Ghana School of Graduate Studies and aimed at equipping scholars for success beyond their PhD Degree.
The boot camp brought together Doctoral Students from across various disciplines to equip them with tools for post-doctoral advancement.
In his wide-ranging address, Professor Hinson highlighted humility as a foundational principle for success during and after the PhD journey. “Humility,” he noted, “opens the door for material, spiritual, academic, and professional resources to flow into your life. A humble attitude allows you to learn from everyone—superiors, peers, and even subordinates.” He encouraged students to adopt a lifelong learning posture, constantly seeking knowledge and wisdom from others.
Professor Hinson also stressed the power of a daily improvement mindset, urging doctoral candidates to wake up each morning with the orientation of “I can do better today.” He cautioned against complacency and challenged students to push for daily excellence in their research, writing, and professional engagements.
A significant portion of the seminar focused on intentional networking. Professor Hinson encouraged participants to network not only within academic circles but also in broader professional, social, and spiritual domains. “Network up, down, and across,” he advised. “Engage with superiors, peers, and subordinates alike. Attend external seminars, conferences, and research workshops where you can build meaningful, long-lasting relationships.”
In a particularly insightful moment, he advised students to identify and connect with leading authorities in their fields of study. “Research who the giants are in your area and don’t be afraid to reach out,” he said. “You may be surprised how willing people are to mentor and support emerging scholars.”
Health and well-being were also central to Professor Hinson’s message. Referencing 1 Timothy 4:8 – “Bodily exercise profits a little…” – he reminded students that diet and exercise are essential for sustaining productivity and long-term success. “Your body is your vehicle. If it breaks down, everything else does,” he remarked.
The Professor also underscored the importance of spiritual development, encouraging participants to build a strong relationship with God. He noted that spiritual power is often the hidden force behind sustained professional breakthroughs and resilience.
Wrapping up his session, Professor Hinson delved into the subject of personal branding, stating that “everyone has a brand, whether they know it or not.” He introduced students to his own personal website—www.robertebohinson.com—as a case study in personal brand development. He shared the seven pillars of the Hinson Brand, and revealed that he was considering adding an eighth: “Marketplace Preacher”—a nod to his growing passion for integrating business leadership with spiritual teaching in church and ministry settings.
The doctoral participants expressed immense appreciation for the session. Many described it as both “eye-opening” and “practically transformational,” with a strong call for more such engagements in future training activities.
