Building a personal brand will set you apart and lead to more career opportunities.
Nobody understands branding better than big companies. But the ‘YOU’ brand is the most important brand you will ever own. And while this is more so true for the freelancer or entrepreneur. The times are a-changing. Because, in today’s world, everyone–including you, has the ability to be the CMO (Chief Marketing Officer) of your own ME Inc.
Yes, you may not own a business, and you may not be a freelancer or consultant. But business owners and founders are by no means the only people who represent their companies. Your job title does not define you, nor are you confined by your job description. So whether you are part of the sales staff or you work in the mailroom, individuals also have a personal brand.
Now, how does that work in the real world? The YOU brand extends to your network and how well (or badly) you are perceived by those who interact with you. The problem is most employees need to see what they deem a limited reach within the workplace as a brand. But that’s furthest from the truth since we live in the age of social media and smartphones. Building a personal brand helps elevate credibility and boost the trust that can attract more opportunities and exposure–and ultimately more revenue.
How to build your personal brand
Under sell and over-deliver
I’m sure you have heard the saying, “Under-sell and over-deliver?” Provide quality work and service that blows people away. Trust me, people will notice. Let your work speak for itself. Having someone talk kindly of both you and your work will always be the best marketing.
Create a positive experience
If people remember nothing else about you, they always remember how you made them feel. If there’s one lesson I’ve learned over the years, it’s that if you listen to people and learn as much as possible about them. Plus, being an empathetic leader is an easy way to stand out.
Share your point of view
Build credibility in your area of expertise by writing and contributing to industry blogs and publications. Sharing your point of view and story is a great way to gain respect and authority, and when you do get your time in the media make sure everyone else also knows. Truly owning your story and sharing your opinion, can serve as a means to help others own theirs and therefore elevate your ‘like, know and trust’ factor.
Create a strong digital footprint
If you don’t sell yourself no one will. Remember this — you are your best marketer. Start creating a strong digital footprint by creating a stellar LinkedIn profile or personal website to highlight and leverage your professional accomplishments and knowledge.
Hiring managers and executives research potential employees or business partners, and the same for customers and clients. They check Google and social media profiles to determine whether their values align. Your digital footprint also extends to your inbox, so you may want to add an email signature (include name, title, contact info, and link to a website or online profile).
Building your personal brand will help you get noticed in a crowded sea, will help you to land that dream job or internship, get that promotion, and even new clients.
