How do you improve communication and networking skills using personal branding audit feedback?

1 Step 1: Analyze the feedback

Analyzing the feedback from a personal branding audit is the first step. You can use surveys, interviews, online reviews, social media analytics, Google search results, and personal SWOT analysis to conduct an audit. The feedback could be quantitative or qualitative, positive or negative, specific or general. Examining the patterns, themes, gaps, and discrepancies in the feedback is key. Ask yourself questions such as: what are the common words or phrases used to describe you or your work? What are your main strengths and weaknesses? Is your online and offline presence consistent? How do you compare to competitors or peers in your industry or niche? What areas need improvement or more showcasing?

2 Step 2: Set SMART goals

The second step is to set SMART goals based on the feedback. SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Such goals can help you focus on what you want to achieve, how you will measure your progress, and when you will complete your actions. For instance, based on the feedback, you could set goals such as increasing your LinkedIn connections by 20% in the next three months by reaching out to potential clients, partners, and influencers in your field; improving your public speaking skills by joining a Toastmasters club and delivering at least one speech per month for the next six months; and updating your website and portfolio by adding new projects, testimonials, and awards that showcase your value proposition and expertise by the end of the year.

3 Step 3: Implement strategies

The third step is to implement strategies to help you achieve your SMART goals and improve your communication and networking skills. These strategies should be aligned with your personal brand identity, values, and vision. For instance, you can create and share valuable content that demonstrates your knowledge, skills, and personality on your website, blog, social media platforms, and online forums. You can also attend and participate in relevant events, workshops, webinars, podcasts, and online communities that offer opportunities to network, learn, and showcase your expertise. Furthermore, seek and offer feedback, advice, referrals, recommendations, and endorsements from your network, clients, mentors, and peers. Additionally, monitor and manage your online reputation by responding to comments, reviews, and messages as well as updating your profiles, bios, and keywords.

4 Step 4: Evaluate and adjust

The fourth and final step is to evaluate and adjust your communication and networking skills based on the results of your strategies. Evaluation involves measuring and assessing your performance and outcomes against your SMART goals, while adjustment involves making changes or improvements to your strategies. To evaluate and adjust your communication and networking skills, consider tracking and analyzing metrics like website traffic, social media engagement, email open rates, leads, conversions, and referrals. Additionally, collect feedback from your network, clients, audience, and stakeholders. Celebrate successes while learning from challenges. Finally, revise and update your SMART goals and strategies as needed.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?