How to Wear Your Personal Brand

What do people think of when they hear your name? The answer to that question is your personal brand, which you have the power to define.  

What do you want people to know about you? What do you stand for? What are your skills, values and passions? What makes you unique? Why should people like you, need you, or want to hire you?

All of these considerations make up the essence of who you are and how people perceive you. Your personal brand matters because it can influence your credibility, showcase your selling points, and enable you to connect with people who can impact your professional career.

Establish your brand

The key to establishing a solid personal brand is authenticity. You cannot decide to be someone you are not, nor will your brand stand a chance if your actions do not align with your words. Be intentional about following through on your brand perception by being the person you claim to be. That is the definition of integrity—and integrity is essential to a successful personal brand.

Understand that your brand is not about popularity. Aspects of your personal brand—beliefs, behaviors, or core values—may not appeal to everyone. Some may even dislike what you stand for. But that’s okay. It is far more important to be your authentic self than it is to please the masses. Your brand will draw the people, partners and supporters who are most likely to create the kind of synergy that propels your personal and professional growth forward.  

Expose your brand

Once you have established your personal brand; how do you share it with the world?

First, determine your goals. What path do you intend to take in your career or personal endeavors? What do you hope to achieve along the way, and when?

Next, identify the people who can assist you on the journey, and engage with them. Reach out on social media—LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram—and communicate with groups, events, or individuals in your industry and space. Post positive messages aligned with your personal brand and respond to anyone who comments. Reciprocate and contribute to the conversation, being just as willing to help as to receive. 

Finally, build your network offline as well. Create rapport with your co-workers and leaders, attend networking events, and never turn down a chance to meet a new colleague for coffee. Develop an “elevator pitch” or a 30-second summary of what defines your value, not just your job title. It should capture your goals as well as what makes you unique and interesting. Then share that pitch whenever the opportunity arises within a conversation. 

Value your brand

Your brand is not just the perception of your values; it is also a statement of your value.  What value do you bring your employer or client? Do not undersell yourself. Wear your personal brand like a suit of armor, prepared to deflect anything or anyone who might be poised to undervalue you. The right people will appreciate the person—and the potential—inside.