Copy of Does Personal Branding Make You More Employable?

Does personal branding make you more employable?

In today’s competitive job market, personal branding has become more important than ever.

Research from design platform Canva reveals that 91% of UK hiring managers prefer candidates with a strong digital professional brand. On the flip side, 81% of UK job seekers agree that an organisation’s brand is crucial when considering potential employers.

Is personal branding just a buzzword? Or is it a vital tool for standing out?

What exactly is a personal brand?

A personal brand is essentially the way you present yourself to the world. It’s the combination of your skills, experiences, values, and personality that people associate with you—both online and offline.

In simple terms, it’s what makes you, you.

Think about public figures like Richard Branson, who’s built a personal brand so synonymous with Virgin that many people see his face whenever they think of the brand. Then there’s Stephen Bartlett, who transitioned from being the CEO of Social Chain to becoming a judge on Dragons' Den, turning his personal brand into a mainstream success.

However, modern personal branding efforts aren’t always universally embraced. For example, James Watt of BrewDog has recently doubled down on building his personal brand. While some admire him, he’s also faced backlash through impersonation videos and online trolls.

That said, a personal brand doesn’t have to mean becoming a celebrity.

It can be as simple as sharing posts on LinkedIn that highlight your expertise, experiences, or thoughts. It’s about showing what makes you unique, in a way that feels authentic to you.

What are the pros and cons of a personal brand??

The short answer is: it depends on how you use it.

How it helps you stand out

1. Standing out A personal brand helps you stand out in a crowded market by showcasing your expertise, values, and uniqueness beyond qualifications.
2. Credibility and trust Sharing insights and experiences through blogs, posts, or talks establishes you as a reliable and knowledgeable professional.
3. Visibility A recognisable personal brand keeps you top of mind with employers and contacts, enhancing your chances of being noticed.

Potential pitfalls to avoid

1. Overexposure Focusing too much on self-promotion can make you seem more interested in yourself and less of a team player. Avoid this by striking a balance of knowledgeable, but keep it down to earth rather than overly confident.?
2. Inconsistency Misalignment between your brand and actual skills can harm your reputation.
3. Wrong tone of voice Your tone on platforms like LinkedIn may not always reflect how you are in real life. Your posts should be consistent with your personality and don’t come across as overly formal or detached (we're looking at you ChatGPT? ??).

How to build or enhance your personal brand

If you’re ready to develop or strengthen your personal brand, here are some actionable tips to get started:

1. Define your unique value

Ask yourself: What am I good at? What do I care about? What do I want to be known for? Defining your unique value will help you create a consistent and authentic personal brand.

2. Optimise your online presence

Your LinkedIn profile is often the first place employers will look. Make sure it’s up to date, includes a professional headshot, and highlights your key achievements and skills. Regularly share or create content that reflects your expertise and interests. Oh, and make sure 'creator' mode is switched on your LinkedIn profile.?

3. Share your story

People connect with stories. Share your career journey, the challenges you’ve overcome, and what motivates you. This not only makes you relatable but also demonstrates resilience and authenticity.

4. Network strategically

Engage with others in your industry, both online and offline. Attend events, join professional groups, and participate in discussions. Networking isn’t just about who you know; it’s about who knows you.

5. Be consistent

Your personal brand should be consistent across all platforms. From your LinkedIn profile to your email signature, ensure that your messaging aligns with your values and goals.

Is it worth all the time and effort?

When done well, absolutely.

It can differentiate you from other candidates and make you memorable, it can position you as a leader in your field and a go-getter.?

However, personal branding isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It requires authenticity, consistency, and a clear sense of purpose.

What are your thoughts on personal branding? Have you started your own personal brand yet? Discuss with us in the comments below.