How to Create a Strong Personal Brand

Over the years I’ve enjoyed speaking at conferences and love the energy of being on stage. I’ve focused on the topic of Personal Branding in my presentations because it’s an often overlooked yet powerful concept that can significantly impact our lives and careers.?

Amazingly, most professionals have never given the concept of intentionally curating a strong personal brand a moment's thought. Understandably, they've been too busy actually "doing the work".

So, what exactly is a Personal Brand??

A personal brand is your unique talents and what you represent. It’s your identity and image, rooted in fact and authenticity. It’s not about creating a false persona; it’s about highlighting your core strengths and values.?

Why's it so important to be strategic about curating your Personal Brand??

Everyone has a brand, but not everyone is strategic about it. Opportunities for advancement often go to those who are both hardworking and strategic. Your brand can be a powerful tool in your career, especially when competing for promotions. To advance requires visibility. And the good news is...YOU are in control of the message you send out about yourself.

Bottom line: Creating a personal brand gives you a competitive advantage and helps you stand out.

6 Easy Steps to Create Your Personal Brand?

1. Identify Your Key Attributes: Think of four words that describe you. Are these the words you want others to associate with you? Personal branding is about understanding your identity, strengths, and passions.?

??

2. Highlight Your Achievements: Note your career accomplishments, like making great hires or achieving tough targets. These achievements are part of your brand.?

??

3. Seek Endorsements: When someone compliments your work, ask them to write an endorsement on LinkedIn. This builds your credibility and visibility.?

??

4. Communicate Effectively: When your boss asks how things are going, share specific accomplishments and challenges you’ve overcome. For example:?

?? - “I’m working on an interesting project and overcame some challenges with [X, Y, Z], finding a solution with [Q].”?

?? - “I took on the new ABC assignment, and it’s pushing me to up my game with [X].”?

??

5. Be Authentic: Self-promotion must be rooted in authenticity. Share your successes truthfully without exaggeration. For instance:?

?? - “In the past, I’ve found that [X] works well for solving problems like this.”?

?? - “Recently, my team and I tackled a similar assignment, and it turned out great.”?

??

6. Break Self-Deprecating Habits: Avoid starting sentences with “I’m sorry for asking this question but…” or “This may not be a good idea but…” Be confident in your abilities and communicate them clearly.?

Knowing your personal brand is about knowing yourself and your value. It's not about being conceited or arrogant, it's just the quiet confidence that comes from understanding yourself and your strengths.

Own Your Success?

Recognize what makes you successful and own it. Your brand is a reflection of your unique value, so present it confidently and strategically to enhance your career and open new opportunities.

And remember, as Jeff Bezos famously said, "“Your personal brand is what people say about you after you leave the room.”