Personal branding is not about changing who you are, or misrepresenting what you stand for. Personal brand development starts from the purest position – authenticity. By recognizing and communicating your unique strengths, you become more compelling to your target audience. Your personal brand removes you from an “everything looks the same” sell by leveraging your unique passions, interests and strengths. Your brand is what distinguishes you from everyone else. When you’re lined up with competition that offers similar product quality, similar experience and knowledge, your brand is your most important differentiator! It’s the reason a client wants to do business with you; it’s the purpose behind an employer hiring you.
Focusing on what genuinely makes you unique allows you to grow your brand from a place of strength, while understanding and managing weaknesses. At the heart of effective brand development is authenticity – practicing what you preach; being totally clear about who you are, what you stand for, and what you do best.
Developing your personal brand starts with an honest look at your current self –
What are you known for today? What is your current reputation?
How do your clients view you? What do colleagues say about you?
What do others turn to you for – not your product, but you?
What are your positive (and negative) traits as a professional?
Only from this critical and honest assessment can you begin to map the distance between how you want to be known and how you are known today. Only with this understanding can you begin building the legacy you desire. The discovery process is very internal and introspective, but when you start from the core, you develop a brand that sticks – because it’s genuine and compelling.
When your personal brand stands out as clear and compelling, clients, employers and colleagues know who you are, what you do best, and why they need you! Learn more about building your unique brand.
Great questions to ask yourself. I would recommend on an on-going basis. And if you can’t answer the questions, just reach out to a close colleague or client. They can help you. Thank you for your post.