Don’t Like Standing Out? These 4 Steps Will Help

What is it about standing out that makes most people shudder? The thought of being boastful, or seeking fame, or showing arrogance? It could be these thoughts or just fear poking its head through and holding you back from being seen and building your personal brand. ?

It does take confidence to be more visible but you don’t have to be “showy”. Whether you are an introvert or extrovert you need to put aside fear and express yourself to engage your audience and be a voice that people listen to.

Most of this fear is imaginary. We think we’re not good enough, or feel like an imposter, we’re being judged by others and the list goes on. This can be an obstacle to putting yourself forward for a speaking opportunity or expressing your opinion in a meeting or showcasing your expertise on video.

To grow as a business leader or entrepreneur it is important to step outside your role and look at ways to build your personal brand and be noticed.

It’s not about being grandiose and shouting from the rooftops about how great you are. But if people don’t know who you are and what you do, how can you help them?

I know that you are busy doing what you do and saying, “I don’t have time to focus on promoting myself.” Think of the alternative.

As a former public relations consultant, I worked with clients to implement a step-by-step PR plan to gain exposure and attention for their brand and business. These days I guide people to build reputation through their professional presence incorporating image, presentation skills and other personal brand strategies. I help clients with their visual communication, communication message and visibility through my workshops and 1-1 coaching.

I take my clients through a step-by-step approach to standing out. Here is how I do it.

WHAT do you want to be known for??

First step is to look at the big picture, your work aspirations and the goal you want to achieve. You need to establish a clear, articulated vision of your future. Do you want a new job, set up you own business, get a promotion or just be recognised for the value you bring to your role?

Determine exactly what it is you’re wanting to achieve. You understand goal setting and it’s the same with your personal brand plan. If you articulate what you’re after you’re more likely to achieve it.

You might have a big picture vision …read more here.

WHO is your audience?

Who do you need to communicate with? Identify your target market. Define who it really is you need to appeal to. Are they your bosses, potential employers or clients? Be specific and clarify that one person who embodies your audience.

There are also influencers you need to include. If it is in-house bosses you might include …read more here.

WHY you?

What is it about you that helps you stand out and be noticed?

WAY

How are you going to reach your market with your clear message.

Here’s a few quick tips to get you started. ?

This is one of the reasons I work with business owners and leaders like you, to develop your own or your team’s personal brand. Read more about my signature program Power Up Your People Brand Presence.

Sue Currie is a speaker and the author of IMPRESSario, Present and Promote the Star Within You. She is passionate about helping business executives and entrepreneurial professionals elevate their personal brand, image and professional presence. Sue’s suite of image management services delivered through workshops, consulting, coaching and keynote presentations provides a multi-faceted approach to gain high transformation for her clients.