What do you do if your personal brand as an executive needs strengthening?

Self-audit or self-reflection should not stop you from believing in your strengths. Your strengths are your real asset , so don't start doubting your abilities, getting overwhelmed by the pressure of competition in the market. Your credibility as a coach depends upon authenticity of your voice. Build real connections to add value to the lives of your clients. Self-improvement without comparing your journey with other brands in the market is the key to grow and strengthen your brand.

Begin with a thorough assessment of your current brand image. This involves soliciting feedback from colleagues, mentors, and industry peers. Utilize professional tools or conduct informal surveys to gauge perceptions of your leadership style, decision-making process, and interpersonal skills. Personally, I've found that this step often unveils discrepancies between how we view ourselves and how others perceive us, providing a solid foundation for growth.

Your image is a representation of your authenticity and values. People see through pretense. Both Mercedes Benz and Ford Trucks offer the same accessories, but a pickup truck can go where a Mercedes cannot. This comes from a guy who once wore a suit and now wears a t-shirt and cowboy hat, and offers a heartfelt, real, message.

Define what sets you apart from others in your industry. Identify your unique strengths, values, expertise, and passions. Clarify your personal brand message and the image you want to convey to others.

Setting clear, achievable goals is pivotal. Whether you aim to be recognized as a thought leader in your industry, pivot to a new sector, or enhance your leadership qualities, your goals will guide the development of your personal brand. Reflect on your career aspirations, values, and the impact you wish to have. For me, setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals has always been instrumental in plotting the course for brand evolution.

Ensure that your online profiles, including LinkedIn, professional websites, and social media accounts, accurately reflect your personal brand. Optimize your profiles with relevant keywords, professional photos, and compelling content that showcases your expertise and achievements.

A strong online presence is indispensable. This involves being active on professional networks like LinkedIn, contributing to industry publications, and engaging with relevant content. Creating and sharing insightful content that aligns with your brand values and goals not only showcases your expertise but also builds credibility. I've personally leveraged platforms like LinkedIn to share my thoughts on leadership trends, which significantly amplified my brand visibility.

Cultivate relationships with industry peers, colleagues, mentors, and influencers who can support and amplify your personal brand. Attend networking events, join professional associations, and actively engage with others online and offline to expand your network.

Networking isn’t just about collecting contacts—it's about building meaningful relationships. Attend industry conferences, participate in webinars, and engage in online forums relevant to your field. The goal is to be both seen and heard, contributing value in every interaction. My networking strategy always includes a follow-up, often sharing an article or a note that reflects on our discussion, helping cement the connection.

Continuously seek opportunities for personal and professional growth. This could be through formal education, mentorship, or self-directed learning. Staying abreast of industry trends and acquiring new skills not only enhances your leadership capabilities but also signals your commitment to growth. I dedicate time each week to learning something new, which has been instrumental in staying ahead in my field.

Consistency is critical to building a strong personal brand. Ensure that your messaging, tone, and actions align with your brand identity across all channels and interactions. Be authentic, reliable, and trustworthy in your dealings with others.

Your personal brand should be consistent across all platforms and interactions. This coherence builds trust and recognition. Ensure that your online profiles, resume, and even your communication style reflect the same values and professional image. Consistency has been a cornerstone of my branding strategy, reinforcing my reputation as a dependable and principled leader.

Invest in continuous learning and professional development opportunities to enhance your skills, knowledge, and expertise. Stay updated on industry trends, technologies, and best practices to maintain your relevance and credibility.

Authenticity: Your personal brand should be a true reflection of who you are. Authenticity resonates with people and builds deeper connections. Feedback Loop: Establish a mechanism for continuous feedback. It keeps you grounded and open to growth. Adaptability: The business world is ever-evolving, and so should your brand. Be open to evolving your brand as you grow in your career and as market demands shift.