What IS a Personal Brand and what does it have to do with your Image? As a business owner, they run hand-in-hand. By definition, a personal brand is the practice of marketing yourself and your career as a brand. Personal branding concepts teach that success comes from self-packaging. Your Image IS that self-packaging. Having said that, a personal brand is NOT about self-promotion, but the value you are able to consistently deliver to others.
A strong personal brand is consistent and specific. Personal branding is common among celebrities, politicians and sports figures. Think Barbara Corcoran, Michael Bublé and Richard Branson. Each has an established and consistent personal brand and represents it with their signature look. A look in alignment with their branding, marketing, etc.
Personal Branding Consists of Three Basic Elements:
Value Proposition: What do you stand for?
Differentiation: What makes you stand out?
Marketability: What makes you compelling?
The importance of identifying these values is essential. Once they’ve been clearly defined ask yourself, “Am I reflecting those values in my brand, customer’s experience, language (both verbal and body), content, wardrobe, and presentation?”
Keeping the representation of those values in mind, visit these 4 Key Elements to a Strong Personal Brand;
Wardrobe
Dress the part. Be that person who shows up in a way that attracts the RIGHT kind of attention. The kind that makes others wonder who you are and what you’re up to. While it is important to express your individuality it’s equally valuable to dress in a way that attracts your clients.
Social Media
Begin by focusing on one or two sites. Search for people within your industry, and follow them or add them as friends. Once you do this, be sure to interact with your friends/followers. For example, you can do an education based marketing tip of the week. It will help brand you as a thought leader and generate a following.
Speaking
Speaking positions you as an authority and thought-leader in your industry. The stage is a platform to share your expertise, express the individuality of you are and create buzz.
Be Responsive
One of the best ways to build a positive personal brand is to take the time to engage with others. When people email/message you a question, answer it. When someone asks you a question at a networking group, follow up with them and provide a resource. Putting others before yourself will help you build a positive brand.
Consistently executing these Key Elements WILL get results. It does take time, but creating a strong personal brand will be worth it!
Who do you think has an exemplary personal brand?