What is a personal brand?

Hi there, how are you doing?

It has been an interesting week for me, I have given feedback on 2 Talent tests, started working on my new website, as well as a new network, and did a workshop on Personal Branding as well. But enough about that...

Today, I want to dive into a simple but powerful idea:

Personal branding =

The things you do again and again + The way others perceive you.

We often think of branding as something tied to logos, fancy websites, or social media posts. But we all also have a Personal Brand. This is shaped by:

• Your actions: The consistent habits and behaviors you bring to the table.
• Others’ perceptions: How your actions and communication leave an impression on people.

Most people do not think about this as a brand, but whether you are a job seeker, a business owner, or an employee, how other people perceive you is important.

Let’s break this down with some examples and explore how you can build an authentic personal brand because authenticity is really important:

1. Your Actions: The Consistent Habits That Define You

Think about the routines, communication styles, and work habits that people associate with you. These repeated behaviors are what shape your brand over time.

Examples:

• Are you known for always showing up early, prepared, and reliable?

That consistency tells people you’re dependable.

• Do you regularly share insights on LinkedIn about your industry?

That positions you as a thought leader.

• Are you the one who sends thank-you emails or follows up quickly after meetings?

Those small actions reinforce that you value relationships.

Where to Be Aware:

Today a lot of our personal brands can be, and often are built online. That is why there are a few places to be extra aware about our output and habits:

Social Media Posts:

What topics do you regularly share or comment on? Are you building a consistent narrative?

Email Communication:

Are you quick to reply and polite, or do you often leave emails unanswered for weeks?

Consistency in actions builds trust. And trust is the foundation of any strong brand.

2. Others’ Perceptions: The Impressions You Create

Your personal brand also exists in the minds of others.

It’s what people say about you when you’re not in the room.

Examples:

• If you frequently share helpful advice, you might be perceived as approachable and knowledgeable.
• If you’re always late or unprepared, others may view you as unreliable—even if that’s not who you truly are.

Where to Be Aware:

• Networking Events:

Are you engaging in meaningful conversations or just handing out business cards? People remember how you make them feel.

• Workplace Dynamics:

Are you the colleague who steps up during challenges or avoids them? Every action shapes how you’re seen.

Remember: Branding isn’t just about what you say—it’s about what you do.

3. Aligning Actions with Intentions

To craft a personal brand you’re proud of, start by asking yourself two key questions:

1 - What do I want to be known for?

(e.g., creativity, reliability, thought leadership)

2 - Are my actions and habits reflecting that?

For example:

• If you want to be known as a leader, are you taking the lead on projects or sharing your vision?
• If you want to build a reputation as an expert, are you showing up regularly on the platforms where your audience is?
• If you want to be seen as a connector, are you showing up at networking events?

Final Thought: The Small Things Add Up

You don’t need a big PR strategy to build a strong personal brand.

It’s about the small, consistent things you do daily and how they align with the way you want to be perceived.

What’s one habit you can start (or stop) today to shape your personal brand?

Let me know—I’d love to hear about your journey!

Let’s keep growing together.

Warm regards,

Diana Lund Nordstr?m

Personal Branding, Intentional Networking & LinkedIn

Whenever you’re ready, here are some ways you can learn more:

1. Join my NetWalks in Copenhagen - Sign up for my email list here

2. Subscribe to my new YouTube channel: Let's Talk About Business with Diana - The first episodes will be coming soon