Is your personal brand telling the right story?
The Momentum Files #12
Create a personal brand that gets it right.
What’s your brand?
Did images of logos and taglines just pop into your head? Makes perfect sense. After all, they’re both part of a well-defined brand. But …
I’m here to share with you the important topic that almost every single one of my clients has passionately discussed during our coaching sessions.
Personal branding.
Your personal brand goes beyond logos or your resume. It’s all about how you present yourself and show people who you are and what you’re all about. It’s your experience. It’s your skills and knowledge. It’s how people see you and get to know you. It’s your reputation. And guess what? If you’re anywhere online – your website, social platforms, etc. – you already have a personal brand. Let’s make sure yours is clearly conveying what you want people to know about you.
Otherwise, people will simply guess. And I’m guessing you don’t want to leave your reputation in the hands of other peoples’ assumptions.
I want you to control your own narrative and tell your own story.
Here are 3 things that I recommend to my clients that will help you get started.
REVIEW THE STORY YOU’RE CURRENTLY TELLING
How do you find out about anything these days – things you’re interested in, things you want to buy, how to do things, etc.? You Google it! You browse websites and reviews and social media accounts and gather information.
It’s time to Google … you! Set aside time to Google yourself and see how you currently appear online. Look at your website About page (if you’ve got one) and determine if it’s presenting a clear and accurate description of not only what you do – but who you are, what you value and what you’re passionate about. The same goes for social media. Is your LinkedIn profile complete with an up-to-date summary (this is a BIG opportunity you don’t want to waste!)? Is your social media content appropriate and aligned with your goals and beliefs? Does your personality and professionalism shine through?
If not, it’s time to change things up with some fresh, clear messaging that gets your story right.
And now is the perfect time to take this step – even if you’re not currently looking for a job or starting a business – because when you are ready to make those career changes, you’ll already have things in place!
CLARIFY YOUR MESSAGING
Does your current message paint a clear picture of you for people to see? If not, create content that represents who you are. Remember to go beyond what you do and include what you’re all about (values, goals, passions, etc.). One of the biggest challenges I see professionals face is confidently showcasing their skills and abilities.
It could feel like bragging and make you a little uncomfortable, but it’s important to do this well because it can advance your career and bring about previously unseen opportunity. This will help you to speak or write about yourself without feeling anxious or downright braggadocios.
Take time to reflect and make a list of what makes you unique and sets you apart. If you feel too close to things to see them clearly, ask a friend or trusted colleague to look over your list and share their thoughts and fresh perspective.
REMEMBER THAT PEOPLE ARE WATCHING
This sounds a little creepy, but it’s true. You never know who is online checking you out at any given moment. You could have an audience of recruiters, industry experts, individuals within your network, colleagues and potential employers. Just like you Google what you want to learn more about, they can be Googling you. They want to see what you’re all about, and what they see will likely determine if they’ll reach out to you about a career or personal opportunity.
This is why it’s so important to present your most professional and authentic self. Stay true to yourself. Infuse your content with your personality. Share your values and passions and expertise.
Because you never know who’s watching.
Your personal brand is about educating people about who you are – not just what you do. It is in this full telling that we showcase your unique value. Putting yourself out there can feel vulnerable, but when your personal brand showcases the real you – and gets the story right – it serves to bring the right people and opportunities to you.
So, tell me, is your personal brand telling the right story? Reply and let me know your biggest personal branding win or challenge!
To Your Success!
Cindy Haba
P.S. Did you know that I offer a coaching group called Career Club? This high-energy group of professionals meets virtually each week to talk all things career, professional development and personal and professional growth. Will you join us?