You’ve probably heard of corporate branding, which happens when a company determines how to present itself. If you want to advance in your career, it’s a good idea to articulate your personal brand. This practice is similar to businesses developing their brands, only on a smaller scale. Read on for the answers to four of the top questions about personal branding.
1. What Is a Personal Brand?
Your personal brand is the way that you represent yourself professionally:
- Your work experience
- Your values
- Your pastimes
- Your clothes
- Your social media presence
- Your public speaking skills
For example, John Branca Harvard’s personal brand involves being an entertainment lawyer who represents musicians such as The Beach Boys and Michael Jackson. It also involves his awareness of his experience and skill and his willingness to prioritize clients’ needs.
2. How Do You Develop Your Brand?
Developing your personal brand involves taking a close look at your job and how your career intersects with your personality. Does your current job fulfill you? If so, your job is a key part of your brand. If not, are you trying to make a career change? What do you want from your career, and what are your long-term goals in your field? Taking a personality test is another good way to learn more about your personal brand. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator is one well-respected test that identifies 16 different personalities. You can also think about the causes you care about and the way you vote to determine your values. Drawing from these reflections, try to summarize your brand in a sentence or two.
3. How Do You Let Other People Know About Your Brand?
Once you’re aware of your brand the way that John Branca Harvard is, it’s time to spread the word. Promote photos and stories related to your brand on social media, and tailor your shopping and dining choices around it. For example, if your brand involves concern for the environment, you should shop at local, organic grocery stores.
4. What if You Need to Change Your Brand?
If your personality changes or you realize that you were wrong about something, it’s never too late to change your brand. The important thing is to make sure your brand reflects your current personality.
Now that you have a better understanding of what your personal brand is and how you can develop it, it’s time to start making yours.
