Personal branding is the “footprint” created around your brand. It includes your personality, skills, and values. A strong relationship exists between career success and personal branding. A strong brand establishes you as a thought leader, which opens up new opportunities that you wouldn’t otherwise have.
Even in the age of social media and email, you can’t put a price on having a “face” for your company. Your personal brand story is essential, and it offers enhanced credibility, strong employee communications, and humanization. As you advance your personal brand, here are a few tips to keep in mind.
Solidify Your Online Presence
The first place that most people go when they want to learn about a brand is online, whether it be a website or social media page. Take advantage of these platforms and share information about your business such as images, videos, blog posts, and news articles. These platforms should have a consistent tone, logo, and messaging.
Target a Specific Audience
Define who your audience is. The more specific you are, the easier it is to create content that your audience will like. As your customers grow to learn about the products and services relevant to their lives, they’ll be open to becoming loyal advocates for your brand. Don’t forget the power of “feel good” connections that are built through charitable causes and community-wide events.
Create Relevant, Useful Content
Probably one of the most effective way to share your personal brand story and build on it is through creating content. Whether it be images, videos, infographics, blog posts, or informal research, content creation shows the human side of your business and how you plan to improve the lives of customers.
Avoid Over-selling Customers
It’s easy to use your website and social media to brag about achievements, awards, and recognitions, but think about your audience first. You won’t build a loyal community if all you do is talk about yourself. Identify your strengths and why they matter to customers. People like to be informed and helped – not sold to.
Share Your Knowledge
Help others see why you are an authority or thought leader in your industry. Create fun videos, write news articles, or answer questions on a live stream. As people see that you are confident and eager to share your knowledge, you can build a reputation and establish credibility.
Offer Direct Connections
Consumers like it when they can connect with a brand leader or other important person. It makes the brand feel more “real” and genuine. Have your brand leader post information to social media and be reachable for questions and concerns. People like to work with others they know and trust.
Starting a personal brand for your business takes time and effort, but it’s worth it in the long run. Remember to find your own style and uniqueness. It may feel silly or quirky at first, but these are the types of things that stand out and let people know who you are.
